Bodog Beat

Bernard Hopkins is the underdog against Joe Calzaghe, according to boxing odds in the Bodog Sportsbook. (AP Images)

The fight between Bernard Hopkins (48-4-1, 32 KO's) and Joe Calzaghe (44-0, 32 KO's) isn't until April 19, but the two fighters are already trading jabs verbally.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Hopkins, 43, exuded confidence and predicted a punishing win.

"I’m the best who’s ever done this in my era," he said. "I’m going to punish him slowly. I’ll ask that his father is merciful to him and pull him out when he is getting hurt. I’m going to prove that the sand hasn’t run out of the [hour] glass yet and I’m going to retire on my own terms in my own way."

Comparing himself to another boxing great, Hopkins said he'd come to the ring in the best shape of his life.

"I feel if I truly wanted to I could fight until forty-five if I choose," he continued. "I think I’m the modern day George Foreman. I’m not underestimating Joe, you all know that’s not my style. One thing you can bet your life insurance on is that I’ll come in shape and I’ll come to fight."

For his first fight on American soil, Calzaghe cut right to the point.

"I believe I will win every round," said the unbeaten fighter. "If Hopkins wants a war then I will give him one on April 19 and meet him toe-to-toe. If he wants a chess match I’ll give him a chess match and out box him. All I can say is that I will remain unbeaten."

Currently, Hopkins is the +210 underdog in the Bodog Sportsbook, while Calzaghe is the favorite at -270.