PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Bernard Hopkins is hoping to become the oldest boxer ever to win a world title belt later this month. The Philadelphia native worked out for the media yesterday at Joe Hands’ gym in Northern Liberties.

Hopkins, 45, credits clean living and a dedication to the sweet science for his ability to last so long in such a brutal sport:

“I’m not here because I’m that good. I’m here because I am the most health conscious, clean livin’ person. No wine, no champagne, no anniversaries, no birthdays, no New Years, no nothing. When you have that mentality, it buys you more time.”

Bernard Hopkins on his upcoming fight…

Hopkins, trainer, Naazim Richardson, says the former champ is also a student of history and wants to seal his place in the annals of boxing:

“I think it’s the motivation, the historical value of this and to realize this is a chance for him to make history. I think he’s motivated by this more than the belts.”

The Executioner will get his shot to make history on December 18th in Quebec when he squares off against the 28-year-old champ, Jean Pascal.

Reported by Paul Kurtz, KYW Newsradio