Pavlik seems headed for a Hopkins bout

Not many people expected Bernard Hopkins to emerge as Kelly Pavlik’s next opponent.

Including Pavlik.

“It’s a surprise, it’s definitely a surprise,” said Pavlik, whose handlers are reportedly closing in on a non-title bout with the former middleweight champion. “I didn’t know one thing about it.

“I think it’s a great fight, if he takes it. If that’s the fight, I’ll beat him.”

According to ESPN.com, the fight will be at 170 pounds — 10 more than the middleweight limit — and will be on Oct. 18 at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall on HBO pay-per-view.

For more details, read Friday's Vindicator or visit Vindy.com.