Billy Joe Saunders, the UK’s elite world champion, knows how to get under the nerves of his foes. Starting from trash talking to mind games, Saunders has every trick in his arsenal. However, he seemingly broke the barrier in 2017, gate crashing a press conference of Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin.
While Billy Joe Saunders and his future rival Canelo Alvarez were at 160 lbs then, Saunders aimed at a fight against him and Gennady Golovkin. Alvarez vs ‘GGG’ was a massive fight, and to promote it worldwide, several tours and press conferences were hosted.
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In the London press conference, the WBO middleweight champion (then) Saunders made his way to the live audience. ‘GGG’ and Alvarez were scheduled to fight for the WBA, IBF, and Alvarez’s vacated WBC strap, which was also held by ‘GGG’ at the time. Hence, Saunders grabbed the mic and made his presence felt at the event.
Billy Joe Saunders makes waves at the Alvarez vs Golovkin event
Firstly, Saunders asked Alvarez why he vacated his WBC title instead of defending it against Gennady Golovkin. As Alvarez responded in Spanish, Saunders seemed to have received his answer. He then turned his attention towards Gennady Golovkin.
Per Talk Sport, Saunders said, “Will the winner entertain me, for the WBO 160lbs [title]? “Golovkin, I was supposed to fight you but talks broke down between me and your team.”
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Read More | Billy Joe Saunders Last Fight: How Well Did the WBO Champion Perform?
When ‘GGG’ responded, Saunders said, “Yes, well I’m very, very interested in that fight, love the fight. “My bit was signed to fight you, but for some reason, you lost your pen. So hopefully if Canelo fights you – and I think that Canelo will beat you – I’m hoping to fight you or Canelo in America.”
Although they are in a new weight class, Saunders and Alvarez will not have forgotten this press conference. The former wanted the fight, and he’s finally gotten it after almost four years. ‘Superb’ will challenge Canelo Alvarez for the WBC, WBA, and Ring titles on May 8.
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Do you think Billy Joe Saunders can vanquish Canelo Alvarez?