The World Boxing Council has upheld an appeal by 40-year-old Bernard Hopkins following his loss of the undisputed middleweight crown to fellow American Jermain Taylor last month.
The undefeated Taylor ended the third-longest reign by any champion in ring history at 20 defenses over 10 years by taking a controversial 12-round split decision. The WBC Board of Governors reviewed a videotape of the fight and declared the verdict was "extremely controversial" and "irregular." The decision adds intrigue to their already scheduled rematch on December 3.
Hopkins had not lost since a 12-round decision defeat at the hands of Roy Jones in 1993. Hopkins has 46 career wins, three losses with one draw and 32 knockouts. Taylor is 24-0 with 17 knockouts.