The WBC has warned Billy Joe Saunders to clean up his act ahead of a possible challenge against WBC Franchise champion Canelo Alvarez.
The Briton, who holds the WBO super-middleweight crown, had a contract to face Canelo on May 2 in Las Vegas. COVID-19 put an end to those plans, although Saunders hopes to reschedule.
The WBC has voiced concerns after releasing a video of Saunders jokingly giving men pointers about caring for their wives with domestic violence during quarantine.
“The World Boxing Council understands the World is living through extraordinary circumstances. Struggling with different situations – all simultaneously,” they said.
“We must rely on our loved ones during these difficult times. We must stand together and support each other.
“It is with great disappointment that boxer Billy Joe Saunders recorded an infamous video promoting domestic violence in a moment like this.
“While Mr. Saunders has erased this video and apologized, this is a mistake for which he must reflect and work hard to change things around since forgiveness may be hard to find.
“Domestic violence is not a joke and should not be taken as such. Any type of violence is unacceptable. #punchesonlyinthering.”
Billy Joe Saunders
Saunders has apologized and offered a donation to a domestic violence charity for his mistake.
“It was a very, very, very bad of-taste joke. I’m a God-fearing man. I do not condone domestic violence under any circumstances,” said Saunders.
Whether the 30-year-old still gets the Canelo fight, the WBC may have a hand in that decision.
Canelo is the current Franchise champion. This means any future fight is under the jurisdiction of the WBC – whatever the weight.
This means WBC chiefs can give their opinion on any sanctioned fight between Canelo and Saunders, effectively becoming a WBC, WBA, and WBO unification.
