Veteran trainer and ESPN Classic commentator John Scully has previously worked with the former WBC Light Heavyweight champion Chad Dawson, during his early pro career years. Now Scully has reunited with Dawson. In this interview, Scully explains his thoughts on Dawson?s coming challenge to Bernard Hopkins, any changes that have altered his style, and more?
BoxingInsider: What was your initial reaction upon learning that Chad Dawson will box Bernard Hopkins next and that you will train Dawson once again?
John ?Ice? Scully: ?When I first heard about the fight being set I was obviously very interested and intrigued. It seemed like one of those fights that was destined not to happen but here it is about to go down. It was also exciting to hear that we would be reuniting but to be completely truthful I have always in the back of my mind had the idea that this would happen, this reunion. Just a feeling I had for the last couple of years. I wasn?t as shocked as some might assume I was. For me it is just an amazing opportunity to be a part of something so huge, that being so close to a young man as he is on the verge of realizing a dream.?
BoxingInsider: Have you noticed any changes in Chad?s style and attitude since you last worked with him about five years ago?
John ?Ice? Scully: ?I think his style is pretty much the same as it was before, he?s just a physically more mature man now. And he was always a very confident fighter, even as an amateur, but I think now he is able to express it more freely. His confidence is coming out into the light of day. I think he believes in himself a lot more than he ever did and, with his record and skills, I?d say he has every reason and right to do so.?
BoxingInsider: How is camp going for this fight?
John ?Ice? Scully: ?So far so great. Chad is on a very regimented schedule and following the plan very well. He?s a hard worker. It?s kind of like a puzzle and every day you?re watching it in real time as the pieces fall into place and create a masterpiece.?
BoxingInsider: Insiders have told me the jab is the key to beating Hopkins. Would you agree with this idea?
John ?Ice? Scully: ?I?ll agree enough to say that I?ve told every amateur and professional fighter I?ve ever worked with that every other fighter on earth is beatable with the jab. Hopkins is no different.?
