WBO Middleweight World Champion Billy Joe Saunders will no longer feature on the Saturday 8th July show at the Copper Box Arena after his mandatory challenger Avtandil Khurtsidze was arrested in New York.

Khurtsidze’s promoter Lou DiBella has confirmed that the Georgian will be unable to travel following his indictment under The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). As a result, Saunders’ promoter Frank Warren has been left with no choice but to cancel the bout.

Due to Saunders’ obligation to make a mandatory defence in his next contest, a voluntary defence on the July 8th card will not be possible.

The WBO World Championship Committee has notified Khurtsidze that he needs to inform them why his WBO Interim World Middleweight title should not be stripped from him immediately after “criminal allegations of organised crime”.

Undefeated Hatfield star Saunders is bitterly disappointed that he won’t be able to defend his crown against Khurtsidze next month and commented on the bizarre circumstances surrounding his opponent’s arrest:

“I don’t know him personally but these serious allegations have got in the way of his big chance and I suppose if he did this stuff, he only has himself to blame; it’s down to him.

“I’ll be in the gym training hard and ticking over. Frank is waiting to hear from the WBO to find out who I have to fight next as I am overdue a Mandatory defence. Until then, I’ll have to stay focused and show a bit of patience.

“Hopefully, Frank will get news on that soon and then we can look at the options. I know the fans will want me to still fight but it’s not that simple. I have to get my Mandatory defence out the way if I want the winner of Canelo v Golovkin and that is still my number one priority.

“Everything happens for a reason. I’m gutted but this is boxing and anything can happen. I feel sorry for the fans but you can’t plan for something like this to happen.”

Promoter Frank Warren said: “Obviously we are all very disappointed and frustrated but this is a situation that is completely out of our hands. I’m currently speaking with the WBO to see what the next step is for Bill.

“The WBO have ordered that Billy must have a Mandatory defence next. At the moment, that is could still be against Khurtsidze but we will not know for sure until the WBO give their ruling. Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as going out and finding someone to step in for Khurtsidze.”

“We should have some news next week and it’s a case then of regrouping and doing what is best for Billy’s career. He and I want the winner of Canelo v Golovkin after his Mandatory. That’s still the plan and I will do everything I can to make that happen.”

Refunds for the show on Saturday 8th July are available from the original point of purchase until 5.00pm on Friday 16th June.

Today, Queensberry Promotions were informed that Billy Joe Saunders’ mandatory challenger Avtandil Khurtsidze was yesterday arrested in New York, indicted under the RICO Act.

As such, his contest with WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders scheduled for Saturday 8th July at the Copper Box Arena, cannot take place on that date as his promoter Lou DiBella has confirmed he will be unable to travel.

The event at the Copper Box Arena on July 8th, televised on BT Sport and BoxNation, will still take place and feature fantastic fights including the WBO European Light-Heavyweight Championship contest between Richard Baranyi and Anthony Yarde, the return of teenage Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois and the eagerly-anticipated rematch between Darryll Williams and Jahmaine Smyle for the English Super-Middleweight title; with further additions to the card to follow in due course.

We are currently planning to postpone the fight to a later date. However, due to the obvious seriousness of this matter, Queensberry Promotions are given no choice but to wait for more details to emerge before anything can be confirmed.

Further information, including additions to the show, ticketing and refund options, will follow in due course.

Billy Joe Saunders has been warned that his dreams of facing the winner of Canelo Alvarez v Gennady Golovkin will be ruined by the desire of Avtandil Khurtsidze.

Undefeated Saunders, 27, makes the second defence his WBO Middleweight title against the colourful Georgian at London’s Copper Box Arena on July 8, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

Khurtsidze sealed his status as mandatory contender for the Hatfield traveller’s World crown with a fifth round win over Tommy Langford in Leicester on April 30.

It was his sixth consecutive KO win since moving to Brooklyn and signing with Lou DiBella, one of the World’s leading promoters.

Saunders narrowly beat another DiBella boxer Artur Akavov in December and the New York promoter believes the Briton faces an even tougher night against Khurtsidze who has won 33 of his 37 fights.

DiBella said: “Billy Joe is a very skilled fighter, but you never know which Billy Joe is going to show up.

“The fight with Akavov was a close, competitive fight. No one predicted that and Billy Joe hasn’t looked the best of himself in a long time.

“The one thing about Khurtsidze is that he’s hungrier than Billy Joe, he’s relentless with his attacks and capable of doing damage at any stage of the fight.

“Khurtsidze could be down by four or five rounds and still mount offensive attacks that could win him the fight.

“He is dangerous from the first bell until the end of the 12th round.”

With the IBF, WBA and WBC belts on the line when Canelo and GGG meet in September, the winner of Saunders v Khurtsidze will be in line for a huge payday and the chance to become undisputed
World Middleweight Champion against the victor.

Saunders had hoped to face Golovkin instead of ‘interim’ WBO champ Khurtsidze, but the fight fell through when the Kazakh signed to face Canelo.

DiBella added: “I don’t think missing out on the Golovkin fight will affect Billy Joe. He knows the importance of this fight.

“If he does beat Khurtsidze there is a big, big money fight there for him.

“I give Billy Joe enough credit that he understands the importance of this fight and will be prepared and ready.”

Saunders clashed with Khurtsidze and his trainer Andre Rozier at recent press conferences, but DiBella believes the boxers could become close once their ring rivalry ends

“When I saw Frank Warren had called the fight ‘Mad Men’, I thought that was perfect because these are two crazy SOBs,” laughed DiBella

“It is hard to say who is the craziest. The irony of all the fire and craziness of their first press conference is that away from it all they would get along.”

Tickets for July 8 priced £40, £50, £100, £150 and £250 are available from:

www.eventim.co.uk

www.seetickets.com

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Andre Rozier, trainer of newly-crowned WBO Interim World Middleweight Champion Avtandil Khurtsidze, believes his man will ‘beat down’ undefeated Hatfield star Billy Joe Saunders when the pair face-off for the full WBO crown.

Khurtsidze – a short, stocky beast of a boxer – silenced the Leicester Arena crowd on Saturday by heavily flooring Birmingham’s Tommy Langford with a brutal left hand early in the fifth round to secure the vacant Interim strap.

Saunders and Khurtsidze had to be separated at a heated post fight press conference in Leicester and it looks like the war of words will continue until they settle their differences in the ring.

Speaking to Boxing Scene’s Steve Kim, Rozier said: “We’re going to get ready and we’ll probably put together a camp at SNAC over in San Fran and do what we have to do to make sure he’s prepared to keep pressure on Billy Joe, keep him off-balance and beat him down, literally.”

A confident Saunders replied to Rozier’s prediction via his Twitter account this morning, stating: “…until he plays the game of ‘Eat the Jab’ and I break his heart and stop him!”

WATCH SAUNDERS’ HEATED CLASH WITH KHURTSIDZE HERE

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders is training in Marbella, Spain with former Heavyweight ruler Tyson Fury.

The undefeated Hatfield star posted a video onto his Instagram page this morning confirming that Fury is back in training.

This week Fury revealed that he is targeting a comeback this summer in a quest to regain his status as World Heavyweight Champion.

“Got the big man with me,” said Saunders. “Tyson Fury is running with us, getting in good shape – he’s lost weight already.

“Getting ready for July. We’re all looking good – bring on Danny DeVito and bring on the winner of Joshua vs. Klitschko for the big man!”

In November 2015, Fury upset the odds to dethrone long-time division king Wladimir Klitschko. The 28-year-old remains the Lineal Champion ahead of his proposed return to the ring.

Saunders is set to face Avtandil Khurtsidze in July after the Georgian stopped Tommy Langford in Leicester to lift the WBO Interim belt.

Khurtsidze, a heavy-handed Georgian, is an avoided man in the division and will be confident of defeating Saunders. Billy Joe has been forced to look at other options after a proposed unification bout with Gennady Golovkin seems unlikely to materialise this summer.

Birmingham’s Tommy Langford was beaten by Avtandil Khurtsidze with a fifth-round stoppage as the Brooklyn-based Georgian claimed the Interim WBO Middleweight belt to set up an intriguing bout against undefeated WBO World Champion Billy Joe Saunders.

Khurtsidze came out swinging, putting Langford under relentless pressure from the off. He caught Langford a couple of times with his vicious left hand and barely took a step back during the opening rounds.

British Champion Langford was drawn in to a slugfest at times, unable to keep the 5′ 4″ ‘mini Mike Tyson’ at bay. It was a huge left hand from Khurtsidze that finished the fight, Langford dropped his hands and was unable to avoid the shot.

Saunders was unimpressed with Khurtsidze’s win, stating: “No disrespect to him but I will show you what he is when I fight him. All he is to me is a puffed up Danny De Vito coming forward throwing punches.

“He will never beat me ever and I will make him look stupid. Tommy should have got on his feet and made him miss and made him pay.”

Baggies bomber Tommy Langford is hoping a victory over Avtandil Khurtsidze for the WBO Interim Middleweight Title will secure an all-British showdown with World Champion Billy Joe Saunders.

On Saturday night the unbeaten British Champion headlines the Leicester Arena, with a full undercard in support featuring Anthony Yarde, Tyrone Nurse, Daniel Dubois, Lyon Woodstock Jr and more.

“When the fight was offered, I was more than happy to say yes and take it,” Langford told BoxNation. “Winning this puts you front of the queue for Billy Joe Saunders. I don’t know if he’s got a big fight or not, but if not he must fight me.

“That’s a big domestic fight there in itself, something I’ve always wanted. This means I can’t be avoided so I have to win this fight,” stated the Birmingham boxer.

Saunders had been hoping to secure a Middleweight unification with Gennady Golovkin for all the belts this summer, but if the fight fails to materialise, he may be forced to look at other options.

“Originally you’re thinking that the Golovkin fight would happen in the meantime, and you’re gonna be there [as a] certainty to fight the winner. But if he doesn’t get that – and it’s looking more suspect now – then it has to happen! Why shouldn’t it happen in the summer? [First] I’ve got to win Saturday night,” added Langford.

“I’ve never been shy about saying I’d fancy the Billy Joe fight, and I fancy myself to beat Billy Joe. He’s a very good, top operator and he found a way to win despite his performance [against Artur Akavov]. You’re in the game to fight for titles, he’s got one and I want it!”

Birmingham’s Tommy Langford faces ‘mini Mike Tyson’ Avtandil Khurtsidze for the WBO Interim Middleweight World Title in the evening’s main event; local lad Jahmaine ‘Smasher’ Smyle (14-4-2, 6 KOs) makes the second defence of his English Super-Middleweight strap against unbeaten Londoner Darryl Williams (14-0, 6 KOs).

Slick South African Zolani Tete (24-3, 20 KOs) faces Arthur Villanueva in a final eliminator for the WBO World Bantamweight Championship; KO king Anthony Yarde (9-0, 8 KOs) will be looking to extend his unbeaten record into double figures and Heavyweight starlet ‘Dangerous’ Daniel Dubois fights for the second time as a pro against Blaise Mendouo.

Remaining tickets priced £30 are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Undefeated WBO Middleweight boss Billy Joe Saunders says Liam Smith’s mouth-watering showdown with British Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Williams is just too close to call. The long-term rivals lock horns at the Manchester Arena on Saturday 8th April, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

Hatfield star Saunders has been involved in a few 50-50 scraps over the years, most notably his unforgettable World Title triumph over Irish knockout king Andy Lee in 2015, and believes Smith versus Williams will be even closer.

He said: “This is a real 50-50 fight. Liam Smith knows his distance and works inside very well. He’s the rightful favourite going in. He’s operated at a higher level and has more fights, more experience.

“But if ‘Beefy’ underestimates Liam Williams in any way, he’s likely to come unstuck. That Welsh boy is a very dangerous fighter, on a good run, brimming with confidence. He’s got an excellent coach in Gary Lockett and they’re sure to come up with a top game plan.

“Seriously, if you gave me a pound to bet, I’d put 50p on both of them!”

WATCH THE EPIC LIAM SMITH VS. LIAM WILLIAMS PROMO NOW!

Smith vs. Williams is part of an unmissable evening of boxing headlined by Terry Flanagan defending his WBO World Lightweight Title against tough Petr Petrov; slick South African Zolani Tete faces Arthur Villanueva in a final eliminator for the WBO World Bantamweight strap; double Olympic Gold Medallist and women’s boxing icon Nicola Adams OBE fights for the first time as a professional and former Team GB Heavyweight monster Daniel Dubois makes his highly-anticipated professional debut along with a talent packed undercard.

Tickets for April 8 priced £50, £70, £100, £150, £200, £300 and VIP £500 are available from eventim at www.eventim.co.uk and 0844 249 1000 and the Manchester Arena at www.manchester-arena.com and 0844 847 8000.

A medical delay over Russian challenger Artur Akavov has resulted in his WBO World Middleweight title fight with Billy Joe Saunders being postponed by seven days to December 3.

The pair were due to meet at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff this Saturday but problems with the translation of paperwork supplied by the Russian’s team have forced an unavoidable delay.

“It’s extremely frustrating for all parties and especially Billy who has been itching to get back into the ring following a frustrating 2016,” said Frank Warren. “The medicals were sent late and mostly in Russian and once translated it then became apparent they were not complete.

“Ultimately, it would be too late to find a suitable replacement so postponing it was our only option.

“I feel for Billy Joe as he was ready to make the first defence of his World title and for all of the fans who wanted to watch him.”

Alex Vaysfeld, from Akavov’s team, who recently came to the UK with Andrey Klimov, said: “This is no more than a translation problem and will be easily rectified upon Akavov’s arrival in the UK and I’m glad Frank was able to postpone for just a week.”.

A frustrated Saunders said: “I was ready to put on a big performance and defend my title in style in Cardiff but unfortunately this latest issue was totally out of our control.

“The fight is still on, that’s the main thing and I’ll be fully prepared to defend my title in Scotland next week before moving on to a blockbuster fight in 2017.”

The Cardiff event is still set to feature four big title fights. Terry Flanagan defends his WBO World Lightweight Championship against Puerto Rico’s Orlando Cruz, whilst Liam Williams challenges Gabor Gorbics for the Vacant WBO European Super-Welterweight title, Tommy Langford faces Sam Sheedy for the Vacant British Middleweight Championship and Tom Stalker and Craig Evans do battle for the third time for the WBO European Lightweight Championship after two hard fought draws.

December 3’s Paisley Lagoon Centre show, broadcast live and exclusive on BoxNation, will now be topped by Saunders’ World title defence against Akavov with rising Chorley star Jack Catterall defending his WBO Inter-Continental Super-Lightweight title and former IBF World Bantamweight Champion Paul Butler also back in action.

Tickets for December 3’s show can be purchased from: http://m.ticketmaster.co.uk/sam-kynochs-mgm-scotland-presents-lights-paisley-03-12-2016/event/35005135A53F7D5F?artistid=2269285&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=33

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Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren and members of his team are currently in San Juan, Puerto Rico, at the Caribe Hilton Hotel for the 29th Annual WBO Convention and securing a huge fight in early 2017 for undefeated WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders is high on the agenda.

Discussions have been taking place and are ongoing with the representatives of two marquee names, Gennady Golovkin, the IBF, WBC, and WBA ‘Super’ champion and Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez.

Whilst both options remain firmly in the frame, another big fight option for Saunders has entered the running at the WBO Convention.

Mr. Warren, who has promoted Billy Joe Saunders since he turned professional after the 2008 Beijing Olympics, has begun dialogue with Japanese Promoter Akihiko Honda regarding a potential fight between the WBO Middleweight Champion and 2012 Olympic gold medallist Ryota Murata.

A bout between Murata, a huge name in his native Japan and Saunders, would match together two former Olympians at the top of their game in a huge fight taking place in either London or Japan.

Frank Warren said: “It was disappointing for Billy suffering an injury ahead of his fight which would have seen him defending his title this weekend, but nonetheless he’s in a fantastic position.

“There are three options we are working towards at the moment, all of which are massive fights. Whichever way it plays out, we’ll be sure to deliver Billy a big clash that will get the pulses going in early 2017!”

Queensberry Promotions received news today that WBO World Middleweight Champion, Billy Joe Saunders had suffered a muscle injury and would be unable to defend against Artur Akavov on 22nd October at Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena. Unfortunately, on the same day British Super-Welterweight Champion, Liam Williams also suffered an injury in sparring that prevents him from defending his British title against Ahmet Patterson on the same bill.

Consequently, postponement was the only option to maintain the strength of the card, and as such the event will now take place on Saturday 26th November at the same venue.

Promoter Frank Warren said: “We have obviously not had a lot of luck with this event, first of all being let down by Chris Eubank Jnr and now the two main fights on a card falling out on the same day. We have no choice but to postpone the card to a month later so everyone is given time to recover.

“I apologise to the fans for any inconvenience this may cause. It is extremely frustrating as the event is already essentially sold out and we were all geared up for a cracking night of boxing on the 22nd October in Cardiff. I am particularly gutted for Tommy Langford who has sold around 2,000 tickets for his British Middleweight title challenge against Sam Sheedy, but I’m sure his support will no doubt still be out in force on the 26th November.”

BoxNation will still have live action from the UK on Saturday 22nd October when The Channel of Champions will switch their attention to Bolton’s Premier Suite with Jamie Cox, Matty Askin and Paul Butler co-headlining a card promoted by Steve Wood.

Tickets purchased for the 22nd October event will still be valid for the new date of 26th November at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff.

Undefeated WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders (23-0 12 KOs) will make the first defence of his title against Russia’s Artur Akavov (16-1 7 KOs) on Frank Warren’s mouth-watering October 22 Motorpoint Arena Cardiff show, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Last December, Saunders defeated Irish hero Andy Lee to take his WBO crown in a close and absorbing fight in Manchester that saw the Hatfield star floor the former champion twice in the third round and go on to claim a majority decision from the judges.

The skillful, hard-hitting, Saunders knows it is vital that he beats Akavov if he is to remain on track for potential blockbuster showdowns with Mexican pound-for-pound star Canelo Alvarez and 160lbs division monster Gennady Golovkin.

Akavov, 28, holds the WBO European Middleweight title and is currently enjoying a red-hot eleven-fight winning streak stretching back to 2012. The 5’9 southpaw known as ‘Wolverine’ made his professional debut against Andrey Korzhenevsky back in 2011 and has never been halted in 17 contests. Now residing in Brooklyn, New York, Akavov has vowed to win Saunders’ world title for his family and country.

Saunders, 27, knows he is in for a risky first title defence against a dangerous and live challenger, but says being World Champion means he has the skills and determination to overcome any challenge.

“Nothing comes easy in boxing and I’m definitely not taking Akavov for granted,” said Saunders. He’s a strong fighter and very dangerous and if I don’t come in 100 percent then he could cause an upset in my first title defence. I’m going to make sure I’m in the shape of my life and give Akavov the toughest night he’s ever had, he’s never been stopped before so this is going to be a first for him!”

“I know why they picked me as an opponent,” said Akavov of Team Saunders. “Although I am very honoured and proud to fight for the WBO World Championship, at the same time, I promise to prove that the Saunders camp were gravely mistaken with whatever they were expecting of me in the ring. I represent my family first and my country and that alone will not let me fail.”

Promoter Frank Warren said: “This is Bill’s first fight in ten months, the Russian is a tough guy who is capable of making things awkward. Hopefully Bill will shake off the ring rust with a successful defence to set up a super fight for early New Year. This is now shaping up to be an absolute cracker of a show with five title fights for boxing fans!”

“I know that the champion Billy Joe Saunders is a professional, so I hope he’s not looking past Akavov,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Artur Akavov is a tough SOB who will bring the fight to Billy Joe. If this is a ‘keep busy’ fight, the champion better be prepared for a tough night. Artur is no joke.”

Saunders and Akavov join a sensational five-title fight card that features Welsh hero Liam Williams defending his British Super-Welterweight title against undefeated Londoner Ahmet Patterson; Penge star Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete making a mandatory defence of his British Welterweight crown against Manchester’s Shayne Singleton; Baggies bomber Tommy Langford challenging for the Vacant British Middleweight strap and Liverpool’s Tom Stalker making the first defence of his WBO European Lightweight title against Welshman Craig Evans.

An action-packed undercard sees world title chasing Paul Butler return to the ring under new trainer Joe Gallagher, Swindon KO king Jamie Cox makes his long-awaited return in an eight round Super-Middleweight Contest, Ilford demolition man Anthony Yarde looks to continue his red-hot KO streak after emphatically announcing himself in the U.S. with another first round KO, Leicester super-puncher Lyon Woodstock looks to go 8-0, rising Swansea Super-Flyweight starlet Jay Harris looks to impress on home soil again, Middleweight starlet Alex Hughes aims to go 8-0 and Croydon Super-Lightweight prospect Nathaniel Wilson goes in search of his fourth professional win.

Remaining tickets for ‘A Little Less Conversation’ priced at £70, £100 and £150 are available from Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; 029 2022 4488 and www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk, Eventim; 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster; 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this show on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

Undefeated WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders begins his reign with the opening defence of his title on Saturday 22 October at the Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, exclusively live on BoxNation.

Saunders, 23-0 12 KO’s, joins a sensational five-title fight card that features Welsh hero Liam Williams defending his British Super-Welterweight title against undefeated Londoner Ahmet Patterson; Penge star Bradley Skeete making a mandatory defence of his British Welterweight crown against Manchester’s Shayne Singleton; Baggies bomber Tommy Langford challenging for the Vacant British Middleweight strap and Liverpool’s Tom Stalker making the first defence of his WBO European Lightweight title against Welshman Craig Evans.

Remaining tickets priced at £70, £100 and £150 are available from Motorpoint Arena Cardiff; 029 2022 4488 and www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk, Eventim; 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster; 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Last December, Saunders defeated Andy Lee to take his WBO crown in a close and absorbing fight in Manchester that saw the Hatfield star floor the Irishman twice in the third round and go on to claim a majority decision from the judges.

The skillful, hard-hitting, southpaw knows it is vital that he makes a successful maiden defence of his WBO crown if he is to remain on track to meet Middleweight monster Gennady Golovkin, who holds the WBA Super, IBF and WBC titles, in a mouth-watering blockbuster clash with all the titles on the line in the New Year.

27 year-old Saunders is delighted to be making his long-awaited return to the ring and is promising Cardiff fight fans an explosive performance.

“I can’t wait to shake the cobwebs off and get back in there where I belong; it’s been too long,” said Saunders. “Every fight is dangerous at this stage so it is important that I don’t overlook or underestimate anybody. I have worked long and hard to get where I am today and there is some huge fights out there for me.

“I need to take care of this fight and then I’ll move on to bigger and better things. I’m fully focused on the job in hand and putting on an explosive performance down in Cardiff. I can’t wait to get this show on the road!”

An action-packed undercard sees world title chasing Paul Butler return to the ring under new trainer Joe Gallagher, Swindon KO king Jamie Cox makes his long-awaited return in an eight round Super-Middleweight Contest, Ilford demolition man Anthony Yarde looks to continue his red-hot KO streak after emphatically announcing himself in the U.S. with another first round KO, Leicester super-puncher Lyon Woodstock looks to go 8-0, rising Swansea Super-Flyweight starlet Jay Harris looks to impress on home soil again and Croydon Super-Lightweight prospect Nathaniel Wilson goes in search of his fourth professional win.

An opponent will be announced this week.

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this fight on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (September 20, 2016)–Middleweight contender Willie Monroe, Jr. won the WBO Inter-Continental title this past Saturday night with a solid 12-round unanimous decision over Gabriel Rosado.

The bout served as the co-feature to Canelo Alvarez’ 9th round stoppage over Liam Smith, where he captured the WBO junior middleweight title in front of 51,240 fans at AT&T Stadium.

Monroe boxed with precision and accuracy, befuddling Rosado throughout the contest as he continuously beat his opponent to the punch.

“Based on what he was saying at the press conference, I expected Gabe to try to knock me out,” said Monroe.

The Rochester native, Monroe mixed up his attack as he countered with his left hand and set up a lot of his offense with a piston-like jab.

“Once I got into my rhythm, I knew he would be two steps behind me, and that’s what happened. I started to notice that in the 3rd round that my jab was controlling the fight. Then he started reacting off a lot of my feints. He is a strong fighter, durable, and he has heavy hands.”

Monroe was generally pleased to be able to win this important bout in front of over 51,000 fans.

“That was pretty cool. It was a little nerving to be able to perform in front of that many screaming fans.”

With the win, plans are in motion for a fall showdown with Alvarez or a chance at the WBO Middleweight title.

“I am excited about what is next. Whether It is Canelo or Billy Joe Saunders, I am just excited about everything that will come in my future.”

“I am very proud of Willie,” stated Artie Pelullo, Banner Promotions President. “He showed how talented he is in fighting Gabriel Rosado. Rosado is not an easy guy to fight., and Willie dominated the pace of the entire fight. There are big fights in Willie’s future, as he is one of the top middleweights in the world.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBO Middleweight champion Billy Joe Saunders will not be part of the Canelo Alvarez – Liam Smith card, due to turning down various opponents.

“I was working hard with Frank to make this deal, and it was going well, but Saunders is not going to be on the card now,” said Golden Boy Promotions Eric Gomez.. “We tried to make it happen. We offered him reasonable opponents, and he said no. We thought it would have been great to have Saunders and Canelo on the same card before a possible fight between them. But now we are moving on.

“Even though Saunders won’t be on the Sept. 17 card, we have not closed the door to still trying to make the fight for December. I’m not sure what else Saunders wants to do, but this was a great opportunity, and Frank knew it. Anyway, the fight with Canelo could still happen at some point.”

One of the opponents that Saunders turned down was Gabriel Rosado

“I signed my contract a week ago,” Rosado said. “From what I hear, Saunders wanted an easier fight. They didn’t want to fight me. The WBO champ [is] acting like a coward.”

Saunders’ response to heavy criticism for rejecting the various opponents came on social media.

“Don’t believe everything you’re told,” he said. “I’ll be in the ring very soon.”

Undefeated Minnesota-based middleweight Rob “Bravo” Brant would like to be the contender chosen to face WBO middleweight champion Billy Joe Saunders on September 17.

Saunders (23-0, 12 KOs) announced last week he would be fighting on the Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs. Liam Smith undercard on HBO pay-per-view in the United States, and WBO #9-rated Brant (20-0, 13 KOs) says he thinks he’s the right choice to face him.

“I have the utmost respect Billy Joe Saunders as an athlete,” said Brant. “I respect him so much that I would really enjoy giving him a grand welcome to the United States in the middle of the square circle.”

Brant has been on a tear for the last year, scoring important victories on national television, including a “KO of the Year” contending knockout over Decarlo Perez in January. During that time, he also won the NABA Middleweight and WBC Continental Americas Championships.

“Rob Brant is the perfect choice for Saunders in that fight,” said Brant’s promoter, Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions. “He’s red hot right now. He’s undefeated and makes for exciting fights and he’s got a fan following from his television appearances. Saunders vs. Brant makes great sense for boxing fans and from a business perspective.”

Cohen says he’s hoping to hear from Saunders’ representatives soon.
About Greg Cohen Promotions
One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen first made promotional headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney.

Cohen currently promotes WBA Interim World Lightweight Champion Ismael Barroso, Undefeated WBA NABA Heavyweight Champion and world-rated contender Jarrell Miller, undefeated WBA NABA Middleweight Champion and world-rated contender Robert Brant, former world champion Kendall Holt, as well as current world-rated contenders including long-time elite middleweight “Mean” Joe Greene, top super featherweight Arash Usmanee, Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis; WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Australian lightweight prospect Josh King.

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including CBS Sports Network, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

For more information, visit gcpboxing.com. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GCPBoxing. Twitter: @GCPBoxing.

A hand injury has forced WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders to withdraw from his maiden title defence against Max Bursak at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday 30 April.

However, undefeated heavyweight sensation Hughie Fury will now joint headline an action-packed card alongside red-hot talent Liam Walsh on a huge night of boxing featuring the best of British of talent, exclusively live on BoxNation.

Saunders, who injured his left hand during a training session, is devastated that he can’t make the the first defence of the world that he won with a blistering display against the then champion Andy Lee in December. He said, “I’m bitterly disappointed. I was really looking forward to making the first defence of my world title against Max Bursak but this is boxing and these things happen. Now it’s all about recovering properly and looking forward to a big 2016.”

Undefeated Fury will now joint-headline the card when he challenges for his first title – the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship – against experienced American Fred Kassi.

Fury has ripped through the division with his devastating, all-action style that has seen him halt 10 out of 19 opponents early with eight coming inside three rounds. The 21 year-old, who is the younger cousin of Unified World Heavyweight Champion Tyson, has quickly established himself as one of the world’s very best young heavyweight prospects and will be looking to make a big statement in his first title fight.

Hard-hitting ‘Big Freddy’ has a fearsome reputation with 10 knockout wins in 18 career victories; 9 of them coming inside two rounds. Kassi, 36, has only been stopped once in 23 career fights and will also be gunning for his first ever title.

“I’m aiming to make a big impact in the next few years and join my cousin Tyson at the very top of the sport. I’m delighted to be featuring on BoxNation again, I’ve boxed on their shows in the past and really enjoyed the experience,” said Fury.

He added: “This is the first title I’ll be going for so I’m buzzing to get in there and do the business. I was straight back in the gym after my win over Dominick Guinn and I’m feeling fit and ready to go again.”

Also joining a mouth-watering night of boxing is Cromer’s British and Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Champion Liam Walsh. The undefeated Cromer star will defend his belts against Coventry’s Troy James in his first fight since claiming the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Lightweight title against big-hitting Brazilian Isais Santos Sampaio in July 2015.

Walsh was scheduled to defend his British and Commonwealth titles against James back in July of last year at the Manchester Velodrome, but the Coventry fighter was forced to withdraw due to a back injury sustained in training. The 29-year-old is chomping at the bit to make his eagerly-anticipated return to the ring.

He said: “I don’t just want to win, I want to be brilliant. Come fight night I’ll have been out of the ring just shy of a year and I’m buzzing to get back in there. Troy is a man I’ve known for a long time, I remember him from the amateur days. It’s a good fight and he’s a decent opponent; he went ten rounds with Terry Flanagan and he’s never been stopped. He’s done all of his eliminators and he’s earned his shot; he’s got my full attention.”

The stacked Copper Box card will also feature Liam’s twin brother Ryan, who will be making the second defence of his British Featherweight title against Belfast ace James Tennyson. It is set to be another historic night for the Walsh twins who both defend their British titles simultaneously; a first for British boxing.

“As amateurs me and Ryan both got to the Junior ABA Finals two years running. He won his the first year and I ruined it and lost, the next year I won my final and he lost his. We’ve never really had that double win on the same night and this time we’ve promised each other we’re both going to win; it’s going to be a special night,” added Walsh.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

For ticket refunds please go to your original point of purchase.

A stacked card also features: The Vacant European Cruiserweight title between Ovill McKenzie and Dmytro Kucher; Anthony Nelson defends his Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship against Jamie Conlan. On the undercard Erith super-bantamweight Lewis Pettitt returns to the ring; Chingford super-featherweight Boy Jones Jnr; Indian middleweight sensation Vijender Singh; Chelmsford super-middleweight Billy Long, West Ham super-welterweight Sammy McNess; Sidcup super-featherweight D.P Carr; West Ham super-lightweight Ben Smith; Hornchurch super-lightweight Sanjeev Sahota; Nantwich heavyweight Nathan Gorman and Enfield super-middleweight Barney Joe Jones, all feature.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders has condemned England prop Joe Marler for calling Wales prop Samson Lee ‘gypsy boy’ after an altercation during their recent Six Nations match at Twickenham.

The Joe Marler–Samson Lee ‘gypsy boy’ saga could finally be resolved today after becoming one of rugby’s most high-profile disciplinary issues of modern times. Ten minutes into the England vs. Wales game Marler and Lee were involved in a scuffle after the hosts were award a penalty.

The words ‘hey gypsy boy’ were picked up on a microphone and provoked an initial public outcry on social media. Saunders, 26, hopes the media attention surrounding the incident will make people think twice before using the term in an offensive way.

Saunders, who is preparing for his big world title defence against Max Bursak on Saturday 30th April at the Copper Box Arena, told Victoria Derbyshire during an interview on BBC 2 today: “In our culture we’ve had this most of our lives. It’s not been so bad in the last few years. When you receive abuse on social media from Twitter and Facebook trolls it’s not so bad but when you receive it in sport it’s not acceptable.”

Undefeated Saunders dethroned Andy Lee last December at the Manchester Arena in the first all-gypsy world title showdown. Gypsy and traveller communities have long been a feature in the British boxing scene but Saunders says Marler’s comments may harm English rugby’s image.

“I’ve had it all my life but I’ve never had it in my sport from another sportsman. I was a fan of rugby and now I probably won’t watch England play rugby anymore,” said Saunders.

He added: “Now other people might think twice about using the term in an offensive way. There is no room for any racism is sport; especially at the standard that he is playing. I was talking about it on the phone to my friend Tyson Fury last night and we are both disgusted by it.”

England’s Marler, 25, says he is not a racist and has publicly apologised for using the term. The Harlequins prop faces a World Rugby disciplinary hearing today and says he will accept any punishment handed to him.

Hatfield man Saunders is all too familiar with the public scrutiny that comes with being a global sports star and believes those in the spotlight should always endeavour to set a shining example for young fans.

He said: “I think some people say things in the moment. Just because of the colour of your skin or your background it doesn’t mean you’re different to anyone else. We’re all human beings. Everybody makes mistakes but to do it on TV is a big game like that isn’t acceptable.”

Red-hot Belfast super-flyweight Jamie Conlan will take on South Shields’ Anthony Nelson for the Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship on the undercard of Billy Joe Saunders first world title defence against Max Bursak at the Copper Box Arena on April 30, exclusively live on BoxNation.

Conlan, 29, is a former WBO European Champion and currently holds the WBO Intercontinental title along with a number five world ranking in the organisation. The Irish hero will be looking to prise the Commonwealth belt from the undefeated Nelson on his quest to become a world champion.

“I grew up watching a local guy from my area called Eamonn Magee become Commonwealth Champion and it’s always been a title that has stood out for me. I’ve always wanted to get it around my waist before moving onto bigger things,” said Conlan.

He added: “The Commonwealth belt seems to propel fighters onto bigger things as we’ve seen with Billy Joe Saunders. It’s a prestigious belt and another step on the road towards a world title. Everything is moving steadily in the right direction. Each fight is another step up the ladder and a box ticked on my journey towards a world title.”

Known as ‘The Mexican’ for his thrilling, all-action, style, Conlan has established himself as a fan favourite and is promising another knockout performance against Commonwealth Champion Nelson.

He said: “Our styles are going to make for a cracking fight. Anthony is a fighter who likes to come forward a lot and everyone knows I’m one of the most exciting fighters in the division so it’s bound to be a belter while it lasts. Fans can expect a war between us but I don’t envisage it going the distance because I’m hitting harder and I’m bigger and stronger than I’ve ever been.”

All-action Conlan is undefeated in 15 fights with 9 knockout wins and is putting in the hours out in Spain ahead of his debut fight at Stratford’s impressive Copper Box Arena.

“We’re out in Marbella at the minute and we’re deep into the training camp. I’m loving everything, the weather is ideal and the training is brilliant. I’m sparring with Charlie Edwards and then hopefully bringing in the European Bantamweight Champion Ryan Farrag. It’s all looking good and we’re pushing pretty hard now as the fight draws closer.”

Knockout merchant Conlan was ringside at the Liverpool Echo Arena earlier this month to witness rival super-flyweight Paul Butler beat Mexico’s Sebastian Sanchez inside nine rounds to claim the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Super-Flyweight Championship. A blockbuster showdown with the Ellesmere Port start is still on the wish list for Conlan.

He said: “It’s a fight that has to happen. We both want it and it’s a fight that makes sense. I’ve always seen myself as the winner; I believe in my ability. He’s a great fighter and you don’t become a world champion for no reason but I 100% believe in everything I do and I believe that I’ll have an answer for everything he brings.

“I see myself winning. I don’t know how it’ll go I just know I’m the better man. Everything he does I can do better and he won’t have an answer for the things I bring.”

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders makes the first defence of his title against “Mad” Max Bursak and headlines an action-packed card that also features: The Vacant European Cruiserweight title between Ovill McKenzie and Dmytro Kucher; Ryan Walsh defends his British Featherweight Championship against James Tennyson; Anthony Nelson defends his Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship against Jamie Conlon. On the undercard fast rising undefeated heavyweight sensation Hughie Fury, Erith super-bantamweight Lewis Pettitt; Chingford super-featherweight Boy Jones Jnr; Indian middleweight sensation Vijender Singh; Chelmsford super-middleweight Billy Long, West Ham super-welterweight Sammy McNess; Sidcup super-featherweight D.P Carr; West Ham super-lightweight Ben Smith; Hornchurch super-lightweight Sanjeev Sahota; Nantwich heavyweight Nathan Gorman and Enfield super-middleweight Barney Joe Jones, all feature.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

WBO Middleweight king Billy Joe Saunders will be appearing as a studio guest on Channel 5’s live coverage of Chris Eubank Jr’s showdown with British Champion Nick Blackwell this Saturday.

Saunders, 23-0-0 12 KO’s, holds wins other both men and will be providing expert analysis on the evening’s bout. The undefeated Hatfield star is hoping to witness Eubank Jr’s second career loss.

“I can’t say I’m too excited about seeing his ugly face. I’m going to be supporting Nick Blackwell and I hope he knocks Eubank out spark cold,” said Saunders.

“Nick is probably one of the nicest blokes I’ve met in boxing. I’ve shared the ring with him and he’s a tough fighter. He’s a very respectful kid and you don’t see him knocking out beginners in sparring,” Saunders added.

Eubank passed up a shot at WBA world champion Daniel Jacobs in order to take on Blackwell, 25. The Brighton middleweight has completely written off Blackwell’s chances and announced beating him would be for the good of British boxing; Saunders disagrees.

Saunders, who’s preparing for the first defence of his WBO World Middleweight title against Max Bursak on Saturday 30th April at the Copper Box Arena, said: “The best result is for Nick to do his talking in the ring. He’s got a very good chance of beating him. Eubank struggles at the weight and as we saw against Spike he was dying out and got hurt; he could be in trouble on Saturday,”

“If Blackwell can get himself in the fight for the first four or five rounds he’s in with a good chance of winning. He’s got a good work rate and I expect him to come on strong in the second half.”

British boxing great Carl Froch says WBO Middleweight King Billy Joe Saunders has the skills to take out Kazakh middleweight king Gennady Golovkin.

Froch, a four-time super-middleweight world champion, refuses to jump on the GGG bandwagon and has backed the undefeated Saunders to prove he is the world’s true middleweight champion.

Speaking to The Sun, the retired super-middleweight supremo said: “I’m not putting Golovkin on this pedestal that everyone has him on. Who has he beaten that Billy Joe couldn’t? His reputation is inflated. He’s obviously a very good fighter and can punch very hard but he’s a small middleweight,

“Beat somebody who is quality, beat him in style and I’ll start talking about you like you’re the next Sugar Ray Leonard or something.”

Froch added: “When I watch Golovkin, I see him getting hit with shots. He walks through them to land his but he’s wide open coming forward.”

The Jimmy Tibbs trained Hatfield star, 23-0-0 12 KO’s, makes the first defence of his world title against Golovkin’s compatriot ‘Mad’ Max Bursak; a man who boasts wins over British Champion Nick Blackwell and Brian Vera.

Saunders has previously expressed his desire to take on Golovkin in a massive summer showdown at the Emirates or Wembley and is now even more determined to nail down a lucrative world title unification fight.

He said: “Since I’ve won the world title I’ve grown in confidence. Having a man of Carl Froch’s experience backing me to win has given me even more of a boost. Carl Froch was one of the best fighters about so for him to say that is something. I already know in myself that I’ve got the beating of Golovkin with the right tactics.”

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders makes the first defence of his title against “Mad” Max Bursak and headlines an action-packed card that also features: The Vacant European Cruiserweight title between Ovill McKenzie and Dmytro Kucher; Ryan Walsh defends his British Featherweight Championship against James Tennyson; Anthony Nelson defends his Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship against Jamie Conlon. On the undercard fast rising undefeated heavyweight sensation Hughie Fury, Erith super-bantamweight Lewis Pettitt; Chingford super-featherweight Boy Jones Jnr; Indian middleweight sensation Vijender Singh; Chelmsford super-middleweight Billy Long, West Ham super-welterweight Sammy McNess; Sidcup super-featherweight D.P Carr; West Ham super-lightweight Ben Smith; Hornchurch super-lightweight Sanjeev Sahota; Nantwich heavyweight Nathan Gorman and Enfield super-middleweight Barney Joe Jones, all feature.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

WBO Middleweight King Billy Joe Saunders says Chris Eubank Jr will never be on his level.

The unbeaten Hatfield star (23-0-0 12 KO’s) has warned his rival that he’ll have to step his game up if he is to earn an eagerly-anticipated rematch to avenge the sole loss of his career inflicted by Saunders.

“At the end of the day everyone knows that I’m chasing a big fight with Golovkin. That’s a big money fight and I want to test myself against the very best to see how good I am,” said Saunders.

“For the Eubank fight to happen he’s got to get past Nick Blackwell first. I’ve got more options than just Chris Eubank; I’ve got three or four options,” Saunders added.

Saunders put Eubank to the sword back in November 2014 to retain his British, European and Commonwealth titles. Since then the 26 year-old has gone on to reach the very top of the fight game by bagging himself a world title; an achievement that he believes Eubank will never match.

He said: “Eubank says that going for the British title is something that he wants to do but I think that he knows in his own mind and his own head that he’s not ready for a rematch with me,”

“He can’t step up to my level, he’s a British level fighter. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I don’t think he’ll ever win a world title.”

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders makes the first defence of his title against “Mad” Max Bursak and headlines an action-packed card that also features: The Vacant European Cruiserweight title between Ovill McKenzie v Dmytro Kucher; Ryan Walsh defends his British Featherweight Championship against James Tennyson.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

WBO World Middleweight King Billy Joe Saunders is eyeing up a huge Wembley summer showdown with pound-for-pound megastar Gennady Golovkin should he get past ‘Mad’ Max Bursak.

The Hatfield ace is fully focused on the first defence of his world title against the Kazakh terror on Saturday 30th April at the Copper Box Arena, but is determined to prove himself against the ‘big man’ of the division.

“Now I’ve become a world champion I’ve grown in myself and grown in my beliefs,” said Saunders.

“Nobody is invincible, you only have to look at Tyson Fury who went over and done Klitschko in his back garden,”

“If I could get Golovkin at Wembley Stadium, which would be a massive fight, I’d show the world I can beat the best.”

WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders makes the first defence of his title against “Mad” Max Bursak and headlines an action-packed card that also features: The Vacant European Cruiserweight title between Ovill McKenzie v Dmytro Kucher; Ryan Walsh defends his British Featherweight Championship against James Tennyson. The full undercard will released shortly.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

Undefeated WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders begins his reign with the opening defence of his title against “Mad” Max Bursak on Saturday 30th April at the Copper Box Arena, London, exclusively live on BoxNation.

Saunders headlines a sensational triple-tile fight card that features Ovill McKenzie challenging Dmytro Kucher for the Vacant European Cruiserweight title and British Featherweight Champion Ryan Walsh defending his title against James Tennyson, plus an action packed undercard.

Tickets priced at £30, £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 are available from See Tickets 0871 230 7148 and www.seetickets.com, Eventim 0844 249 1000 and www.eventim.co.uk, Ticketmaster 0844 8440 444 and www.ticketmaster.co.uk

In December, Saunders defeated Andy Lee to take his WBO crown in a close and absorbing fight in Manchester that saw the Hatfield star floor the Irishman twice in the third round and go on to claim a majority decision from the judges.

The skillful, hard-hitting, southpaw knows it’s crucial that he beats Bursak and remains on track to face 160 division king Gennady Golovkin, who holds the WBA Super, IBF and Interim WBC titles, in a mouthwatering clash with all the titles on the line.

In his way, though, stands Ukrainian hardman Mad Max, a former European, WBO Intercontinental, IBF Youth and WBA Continental Middleweight Champion, and veteran of 37 fights and holds a win over current British Champion Nick Blackwell who faces Chris Eubank Jnr.

Bursak, 31, from Kiev, has only lost four times – all by points – against top opposition: Hassan N’Dam N’Jikam in an Interim WBO World title fight; Jarrod Fletcher, who Saunders destroyed in two rounds, in a Vacant WBA International title clash, Brit Martin Murray who he extended the distance in a Vacant WBC Silver title fight and undefeated talent Zac Dunn for a Vacant IBO World title at super-middleweight.

Saunders, 26, knows he’s in for a risky first title defence against a dangerous challenger, but says being world champion means he has to deal

“Nothing comes easy in boxing and I’m definitely not taking Bursak for granted. He’s a good, good, fighter and very dangerous and if I don’t come in 100 percent then he could cause an upset in my first title defence. I’ve worked long and hard to get where I am and look at the massive fights ahead of me against the likes of Golovkin. So no, I’m going to make sure I’m in perfect shape and give Bursak the toughest night he’s ever had, he’s never been stopped before so that’s something I’m looking at doing.” Said Saunders.

Bursak replied, “Thank you to Billy Joe Saunders for giving me a shot at the world title. Unfortunately for Saunders, this is going to be his first and last defence of the title because I will be taking the title off him when I face him on Saturday 30th April at the Copper Box Arena. I am telling Saunders to be prepared and train hard because he will be in for the fight of his life and I will be looking for the knockout.”

In the chief support, big-hitting Derby based Jamaican McKenzie has a fantastic opportunity to snatch the Vacant European Cruiserweight against dynamite-punching Ukrainian Dmytro Kucher.

McKenzie controversially lost in his world title challenge last October in Argentina against Victor Ramirez, but now has the chance to step back towards challenging for world honours again if he defeats Kucher.

A sizzling featherweight showdown see all-action Cromer battler Ryan Walsh make the second defence of his British title against his red-hot mandatory challenger from Belfast James Tennyson in the joint chief support.

An action packed undercard will be announced shortly featuring the best in up-and-coming domestic talent.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.

Billy Joe Saunders was thrilled with his reception at Arsenal on Saturday and says the next time he steps on the pitch he wants to be fighting Gennady Golovkin or Chris Eubank Jnr.

The big Gooners fan went on the pitch at half-time for the Burnley game and was given a roaring welcome by the supporters in recognition of his fantastic win over Andy Lee to take the WBO World Middleweight title in December.

Hatfield ace Saunders then sat back and watched his side storm through to the fifth round of the FA Cup with a 2-1 win and continue on their chase for a third successive trophy.

The undefeated 26-year-old says he’d love to fight at the Emirates and his targets would be Kazakhstani terror and IBF, WBC and WBA Super World Middleweight Champion Golovkin or former victim Eubank Jnr who he defeated in November 2014.

“It was a truly unbelievable feeling stepping onto the pitch where my heroes play week in and week out and to get that welcome from the fans made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up,” Said Saunders.

“I’ve been to the ground many times before and previously to Highbury, but this was the first time I’ve been introduced to the crowd and it was a tremendous feeling. I thought that nothing could come close to the amazing feeling I had when I was crowned world champion after beating Lee in Manchester, but last Saturday at Arsenal came very very close to it,”

“The next time I’m here I either want to be playing as Arsenal’s new signing or a more realistic option is to fight Golovkin or Eubank. Golovkin would be an tremendous fight for British boxing. Muhammad Ali fought Henry Cooper at Highbury so in this new millennium what better than a super-unification fight between me and Golovkin? I know he was at West Ham the other week, but the Emirates is the place it has to be at. As for Eubank Jnr, he’s already had his backside kicked by me, what better than me kicking it again in front of 60,000 at Arsenal!”

Wembley’s middleweight star Gary Corcoran is looking to emulate the success of fellow Irish travellers Billy Joe Saunders and Tyson Fury by winning a world title of his own.

The undefeated Corcoran hopes to see more boxers with gypsy and traveller backgrounds breaking through the amateur scene into the professional ranks.

Gypsy boxers have long been a feature in the amateur boxing scene but Corcoran hopes the success of world champions Fury and Saunders will inspire more to pursue the sport more seriously.

Corcoran, who challenges Bristol’s Danny Butler for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Super-Welterweight title on Saturday 6th February at the National Stadium, Dublin, said: “We’re all trying to do as much as we can to improve the image of the traveller community. It’s not like that at all, sure you get some bad eggs but most of us are ultra-competitive and constantly striving to be the very best,”

The 25 year-old was raised as one of 12 brothers and sisters on an Irish traveller’s site in Wembley and says his rich traveller heritage is a key part of his armoury. With all eight of his brothers being boxing fanatics he was never short of sparring partners.

He said: “Growing up around traveller communities makes you tough. When I was younger I was a bit wild and loved getting involved in scraps with my brothers and other kids on the site. I decided to take that love for fighting into the ring where and I’m constantly getting better and better.”

Known as the ‘Hell Raiser’ for his ferocious fighting style, Corcoran has ripped through his first 14 opponents; claiming 6 knockouts along the way. The natural-born scrapper rarely takes a step back and has earned a reputation for his non-stop punching style. However, the Wembley man revealed that he’ll be approaching Danny Butler with some fresh ideas come fight night.

He said: “My fans can still expect non-stop action from me but I’ll be trying out some new things against Butler. You’re going to see a new Gary in Dublin, me and my trainer Peter Stanley have come up with a game plan but you’ll have to wait and see! I’ve got a lot of respect for Danny but there’s only going to be one winner and that’s me.”

The super-welterweight division is currently jam-packed with talent such as WBO king Liam Smith, British and Commonwealth Champion Liam Williams and new IBF International Champion Ahmet Patterson. Corcoran is excited at the prospect of beating them on the way to his ultimate goal; a world title.

He said: “They all interest me, I’ll be looking to take them on on my way to the very top. There’s some massive fights to be made this year and I want to be involved in as many as I can. I’m not looking past Danny Butler for now but once I’ve dealt with him I can start looking forward.”

The Wembley man says he’s taken a lot of confidence from inflicting defeats on the previously unbeaten Rick Skelton and Rick Godding and is aiming to kick-off 2016 by claiming another scalp.

He added, “I’m looking to make a big statement. I have a lot of family and friends over there that will be coming to watch me so I’m going to give them a big performance so they can go home happy. Irish fight fans are the best in the world, they absolutely love any combat sport and will be making an absolute racket that’s for sure.”

Chief support on the card sees exciting Dublin ace Jamie Kavanagh step up to challenge for the first title of his career when he faces Portugal’s Antonio Joao Bento for the Vacant WBO European Lightweight Championship.

An action packed up line up features some of the best Irish talent, including: Declan Geraghty, Stephen Ormand, Patrick Hyland, Phillip Sutcliffe Jnr, Anthony Fitzgerland, Gary Sweeney, Craig O’Brien and Sean Creagh, plus unbeaten London star Romeo Romaeo.

Ticket prices are from €25, €40, €60, €80, €100 and €150 and are on sale at www.tickets.ie

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, TalkTalk 415 and Freeview 255. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at watch.boxnation.com and via iPhone, iPad or Android and Amazon devices.