Billy Joe Saunders hints at boxing return after Canelo defeat

Billy Joe Saunders has indicated that he may return to boxing more than five years after his defeat by Canelo Alvarez, saying he does not see any current opponent who would trouble him. The former two-weight world champion has not fought since that bout in May 2021.

Saunders believes he could still compete at a high level even without reaching the form that previously took him to world titles. He said that returning with around 70 per cent of his former ability, including his boxing intelligence and movement, would leave him confident against the current opposition.

The 36-year-old also suggested that the desire to end his career with a victory is influencing his thinking. Saunders has not formally returned to competition since Canelo stopped him in the eighth round at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

That loss came during Canelo’s run at super-middleweight. The Mexican became a two-time undisputed champion in the division after defeating several of its leading titleholders, with Saunders among the champions beaten during that period.

Saunders entered the Canelo bout as the holder of the WBO super-middleweight title. He had already won a world championship at middleweight, giving him major-title success in two divisions before his long absence from the ring.

A comeback would therefore mark Saunders’ first fight since the most significant defeat of his career. He has acknowledged that the decision cannot be delayed indefinitely, with his age making the question of whether to box again increasingly immediate. For now, he has expressed confidence in his ability without confirming a date, opponent or formal return.