Billy Joe Saunders Last Fight: How Well Did the WBO Champion Perform?

Two-division titlist and current WBO champion Billy Joe Saunders will try to claim the WBC, WBA, and Ring Magazine belts against Canelo Alvarez on May 8. Despite being the undefeated elite, Saunders hasn’t been looked like a favorite over the mighty Canelo.

Media, fans, and analysts have constantly backed the Mexican champion to beat Saunders. However, looking at the Brit’s last performance, there’s a lot of hope on board. Akin to Alvarez, Saunders relinquished his over a year log inactivity by returning in December 2020.

He defended his WBO 168 lbs belt clinically against Martin Murray. The two collided on December 4 at the Wembley Arena in London. The fight went till the final bell and fans could witness an intriguing boxing treat. Here’s a look back at the clash.

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Billy Joe Saunders vs Martin Murray- The titular battle

Saunders looked sharp in the fight and showcased a beautiful game plan. But Murray was strong enough to trouble him in the first few rounds. In round one, both men took their time to connect the shots. However, round 2 saw Martin Murray become the aggressor. Although Saunders could land a few shots, Murray ate them and kept coming back.

Meanwhile, the champion found his rhythm in round three and maintained the range and pace of the fight. He landed sleek jabs. The trail continued till the very end, and Murray was frustrated. Saunders made him miss out on the best shots and landed prominent combinations.

The fight turned intense, and in round eight, Martin Murray was charged for applying a low blow. By then, Saunders had already advanced himself into the scorecard. He could have rushed for a Knockout. Nevertheless, ‘Superb’ Saunders remained calm and continued his tactical game plan.

The last three rounds saw Billy Joe Saunders unleash a lopsided punishment on Martin Murray. It was a complete dominance, and Murray couldn’t offer anything from his side. Instead, he remained on the wrong side of a beat down.

Following a gruesome encounter of 12 rounds, the judges awarded the win to Saunders with 120-109, 120-109, and 118-110. Muray earned a lot of appraisals for showing his heart, but it was Saunders’ night.

Do you think Billy Joe Saunders can defeat Canelo Alvarez next?

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