What's next for Bernard Hopkins?

There has been significant talk as of late regarding potential fights for Bernard Hopkins. Everyone from Roy Jones to Paul Williams has been mentioned. Let us have a look at the potential opponents out there for Hopkins:

Tomasz Adamek: He is probably the most likely opponent for Hopkins early next year. The only thing that needs to be sorted out is the money based on HBOs budget for next year. Adamek also gives Hopkins the potential for a third title in a third different weight class. In fact, it would be a third lineal championship.

Paul Williams: This is a very interesting fight. Hopkins may be too big for Williams who is used to fighting between welterweight and middleweight. However, it could be a huge fight despite Williams lack of name recognition. I'd prefer to see Williams beat Kelly Pavlik first and then set up a fight with Hopkins. It would be the classic battle between the wily veteran and the quick youngster.

Roy Jones Jr.: We've heard these rumors before. In fact, too many times to count. These two may never get in the ring but given Roy's latest victory against Jeff Lacy there may be a little murmur of interest in this fight moving forward. I think Jones would make it interesting but probably lose against a much better maintained Hopkins.

Chad Dawson: Assuming Dawson beats Glen Johnson this could be the biggest challenge for Hopkins. Probably his toughest test out there. Dawson is a young and determined talent who should become the heir apparent to the light heavyweight throne once Hopkins has retired.

Glen Johnson: Assuming he beats Dawson in their upcoming fight this could be an interesting fight. Hopkins has already beaten Johnson but he is a solid veteran with remarkable staying power. This fight would probably lack the box office appeal to ever be made but you can always count on Johnson to make a good showing of himself.

Whatever happens next for Hopkins lets hope that he is back in the ring as soon as possible for the sake of the fans.