Michael Nelson takes a look at what's making Timothy Bradley a special fighter.

Bernard Hopkins is widely considered as boxing's smartest fighter, and it's tough to argue that he isn't. But a case can be made that Timothy Bradley's ring smarts are the best of the new guard. His preparation, versatility, and ability to adapt makes him extremely difficult to beat. And similar to how some pundits were shocked when a perceived stereotypical, rough-around-the-edges Philly fighter boxed the ears off of Felix Trinidad, it seems many are surprised whenever Bradley boxes circles around a new adversary.

Bradley's dynamic performance Saturday night against a determined Lamont Peterson served the boxing world notice that it's time to stop being surprised. Timothy's a chameleon that adapts so well, he looks like a different fighter whenever he steps inside the ring.

Let's take a look at some of the reasons Bradley's ring IQ is peaking into rarefied air.

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Michael Nelson previews tomorrow night's junior-welterweight clash between Timothy Bradley and Lamont Peterson.

Things aren't getting any easier for Timothy Bradley.

Saturday, he returns to Aqua Caliente near his hometown of Palm Springs to fight another tough opponent with a unique style.  This time, he'll stand across the ring from Lamont Peterson, a hungry 25 year old with a sparkling record.

There won't be any murmuring about his opponent getting old overnight if he exceeds expectations, like there was after his August 1 bout with Nate Campbell.  It's quickly reaching the point where critics have to acknowledge that Desert Storm resides near or at the top of the sport's best young talents.

Peterson - thus far impressive in his 27 victories without a loss, but largely untested - will be making his bid for that acknowledgement as well.  And a tough life leading up to this shot that included a brief stint of homelessness has likely provided the motivation necessary to leave everything he has inside of the ring.

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