Bernard Hopkins Draws Strength From Frank Sinatra, 2 Chainz Ahead Of Title Fight

AP

Bernard Hopkins, who turned 48 on Jan. 15, is already one of sports' greatest Methuselahs as the oldest boxer in history to win a major world title. On Saturday, the Philadelphia native will attempt to break his own record when he challenges Tavoris Cloud for the IBF light heavyweight championship at Brooklyn's Barclays Center (9:30 p.m. ET/PT, HBO). We asked Hopkins, a schooled music fan, about the five songs that have special meaning for him either in the gym or out of it.

"I’m Different" by 2 Chainz

Hopkins: I take care of myself differently. There aren’t any other athletes like me on this level. I am going to use this song for my ringwalk for my fight against Cloud because he needs to know that I am different when he gets into the ring with me.

[youtube="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2QKlmMT8II"]

"The Boss" by James Brown

Hopkins: I’ve paid the cost to be the boss through sacrifice and dedication over the years and that has brought me to this point.

[youtube="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC2ZY2loo74"]

"My Way" by Frank Sinatra

Hopkins: This song has a lot of meaning for me because I have done everything my way during my whole career. There is no doubt about that.

[youtube="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E2hYDIFDIU"]

"Wake Up Everybody" by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes

Hopkins: There is a conscious message in this song for all people, telling them to get their act together. You have to be self-aware and aware of what is going on around you.

[youtube="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rk6h8PCx2Tc"]

"Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now" by McFadden & Whitehead

Hopkins: I am still going and nothing will stop me but myself. Not Tavoris Cloud not [Cloud's promoter] Don King or any critic. I am going to make sure of that on March 9.

[youtube="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DY0tsKCB4lc"]