Promoter Frank Warren has revealed a fresh offer made to Chris Eubank Jr. for a rematch with Billy Joe Saunders.
In the wake of confirming that Saunders will battle Shefat Isufi for the interim WBO super-middleweight title, Warren outlined a renewed bid to continue their rivalry.
The pair initially traded blows in 2014 in a fight of two halves. Saunders was declared the winner via split decision at the ExCel Arena.
Five years on, and due to social media exchanges since, the bad blood remains as strong as ever.
Warren had hoped to capitalize on this for a huge Saunders return.
“We tried to make the Chris Eubank Jr rematch and they didn’t want to know, they don’t want Eubank to fight Billy Joe Saunders under any circumstances,” explained Warren.
“Billy has been very avoided. We signed twice to fight Golovkin and Canelo doesn’t want to fight him.”
On a possible clash with full WBO title holder Gilberto Ramirez, Warred added:
“The champion Gilberto Ramirez called the WBO and said he would vacate. They put the fight out to Billy and Isufu and we agreed terms.
“But Ramirez then said he hadn’t decided so this is now interim title. I believe Ramirez could vacate and the winner will be declared full champion.”
Saunders is now looking forward to fighting close to his home at the Lamex Stadium, home of Stevenage Football Club.
“This is a good homecoming, but a bit of pressure because I have never boxed so close to home,” said Saunders.
“I’ve got to make sure I’m on my game because Isufi is looking to take my head off. My mind has got to be focused and set new challenges.
“I have never been more determined and I have a lot to prove this year. I’ve had a terrible 2018 inside and outside the ring. I know I have to be on top flight for Isufi.”
TICKETS
Saunders vs Isufi at the Lamex Stadium is subject to licensing and will go on sale via www.borotickets.co.uk on April 1st.
Tickets will be priced as below:
£200 – Hospitality
£150 – Pitch
£100 – Pitch
£75 – Pitch
£50 – Stand
£40 – Stand
