Saul Canelo Alvarez vs Billy Joe Saunders: Super-middleweight showdown booked for May
The big fight was announced hours after Canelo saw off WBC mandatory challenger Yilidrim in Miami
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez will face Billy Joe Saunders in May seeking to become the undisputed super-middleweight world champion after his victory over Avni Yilidirim on Saturday night.
Alvarez needed only three rounds to see off WBC mandatory challenger Yilidrim in Miami, defending his WBC and WBA titles.
Within hours of the win a bout with WBO champion Saunders was confirmed for 8 May in a venue to be determined.
“We want to unify the division,” Alvarez said. “He’s a world champion, we want to go for it and we need to go for it. He’s a very difficult fighter and has a championship, the WBO.
“People talk but I’m a very mature fighter and I know how to control myself. All I need to do is go into the ring, win and make history.”
“It’s because it hasn’t been done, no one has done it in Latin America. In the world only a few fighters have done it, the best. I want to make history and be one of the best in the world.”
Saunders, who boasts a 30-0 record, will be defending his title for a third time after most recently sending Martin Murray into retirement with a comprehensive win.
“Canelo, I’m ready to rock and roll,” the 31-year-old said. “You have to dare to be great and you aren’t going to be a great if you don’t beat the greats.
“I believe I am the only one with the footwork, knowhow, skillset, mindset and brain to unlock that door in Canelo.
“He’s the main man in the sport and the face of boxing. You have to give him respect, he hasn’t ducked anyone, he’s beaten good names, but nobody is unbeatable, and I believe I have got the tools to beat him if I use them properly and if the gameplan comes off that I believe works.”
Alvarez made light work of Yildirim in Miami, securing victory when the Turk retired late in the third round.
Alvarez had a strong start as he hit Yildirim with a big left hook then spent the remainder of the first round working the Turk’s body.
Yildirim copped more shots in the second as Canelo continued the punishment, with the challenger knocked down by a straight right in the third.
Yildirim got up but his corner waved the fight off moments later, marking the third loss in the Turk’s 24-fight career.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments