Bernard Hopkins Should Retire Following Loss to Sergey Kovalev

Bernard Hopkins has secured his place as a legend in the sport of boxing. However, it was also clear Saturday against Sergey Kovalev that the 49-year-old boxer has lost a step—and understandably so.

At 55-7-2 during his career, there's no doubt that Hopkins has been a phenomenal boxer to watch. Even at his advanced age, Hopkins still put up a valiant effort but was simply no match for the punishing power of Kovalev.

Hopkins has already more than earned the respect of his peers, including his recent opponent, for his longevity in the sport. Kovalev referenced how difficult it was stepping in the ring with Hopkins, per The Associated Press (via CBS News):

"

It was not easier than I thought. I was ready for 12 rounds. I thought he was the best fighter in the world at light heavyweight.

[...]

I wanted to show fans that I know how to box and I did. I tried to go for the knockout in the 12th round. He has great defense. He's the best boxer in my division.

"

Of his 66 matches fought, Hopkins has defeated some of the biggest names in the sport. Taking down the likes of both Roy Jones Jr. and Oscar De La Hoya, Hopkins has more than proved he can shine in big moments.

But Saturday night's unanimous decision was not one of his best showings. ESPN Stats & Info provides a look at the final scorecard from the match:

Dan Rafael of ESPN provided more insight on how the fight finished:

Hopkins wasn't able to come away with a win, and moral victories certainly aren't huge in the sport, but he still pushed through in a few rounds. Jones Jr., who knows all about the Alien's power, commented on his perseverance in the match, via HBO Boxing:

Does Hopkins still have some fight left in him? Yes. Can he still compete with opponents much younger than him? Yes. But this seems like a perfect time to hang up the gloves.

Hopkins won't be able to go out on top after a victory or even have a belt, but he still has a lot to be proud of. At nearly 50 years old, the Alien can rest easy knowing that he gave it his all every time he stepped in the ring.

Following the match, Hopkins still wasn't ready to discuss whether he'll return, per Isaac Estrada of Real Boxing News:

Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press gave his thoughts on the post-game comments from Hopkins:

The current amount of respect he has from the boxing community for simply attempting to fight shows just how great of a career he's had. Even with all of that goodwill, there's a distinct possibility Hopkins will look to fight again.

For now, the boxing community will wait to see what Hopkins ultimately decides. Having a chance to walk away with his head held high and respect from the boxing world, Hopkins should ride off into the sunset following Saturday night.