WBO Issues Ultimatum to Billy Joe Saunders Following Victory Over Martin Murray

Billy Joe Saunders and his team have their work cut out for them for the champion’s next move. The undefeated Englishman beat Martin Murray in a slightly underwhelming, but professional performance. The Brit outclassed the 38-year-old and defended his belt with a 120-109,120-109, and 118-110 scorecard. The decision now remains on who he fights next.

Michael Benson from TalkSPORT, reported on Twitter that Saunders and his team have 10 days to make their decision and inform the WBO. He wrote, “The WBO have stated that Billy Joe Saunders will have to face a mandatory challenger next, unless they are informed within the next ten days that BJS is going to fight Canelo Alvarez or Demetrius Andrade.”

Benson also confirmed who the mandatory challenger could be when he said, “Appears that mandatory would most likely be Zach Parker.”

This makes things very interesting for the champion. After the fight, he stated that he wants the big fights since he is not getting any younger. He also reiterated that a stronger opponent could get the best out of him in the ring. Thus, he clearly wants to make the big fights at Super-middleweight.

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History of Billy Joe Saunders with Canelo and Andrade

Saunders has had his fair share of history with the two superstars. He was due to fight Andrade in 2019. However, the fight was called off because Saunders tested positive for a banned substance. And prior to the global pandemic, Saunders was days away from sealing a deal to fight Canelo Alvarez. So it has been close before, but nothing has come of it.

However, with this news, it may push Saunders and their team to make a decision at the earliest. With Canelo fighting on December 19 against Callum Smith, it could be the best time to make that fight happen. Furthermore, there is no doubt it would do well in monetary terms. Fans should keep their eyes peeled on how this all pans out.

READ: “They Want To Try To Play Mind Games”- Billy Joe Saunders Rejects Canelo Alvarez Fight