Boxing fans will be in for a treat on Saturday night when a couple of unbeaten British pugilists go toe to toe at the Copper Box Arena in London. Billy Joe Saunders is the British and Commonwealth Champion, and he will be tested by John "The Gorilla" Ryder in this upcoming title fight.
Saunders owns a professional record of 18-0, with 10 of his wins coming by way of knockout. He's defended his Commonwealth title three times since winning it back in June of 2012 against fellow Brit Bradley Price.
In his last fight, Saunders won the WBO international middleweight title against Irish star Gary O'Sullivan in July, earning a unanimous decision.
The challenger also has an undefeated record of 15-0, but he's never before faced a fighter of Saunders' caliber.
Ryder warmed up for this title fight by defeating Yoann Bloyer in July with an easy TKO in the second round. However, Bloyer was a late replacement for Guzman Castillo, as noted by Chris Kempson of the Islington Gazette, and he wasn't a match for the British up-and-coming star.
Ryder has nine knockouts to his credit, and given the moniker The Gorilla, that's just what you'd expect. He possesses plenty of power, but he's going to find it difficult to land punches Saturday evening against the man known as "Superb."
Saunders has been tested by some of the best middleweights around this past year. The experience he has gained while defending his title is invaluable. He has proven to be a technically sound boxer as well as a punishing brawler, and he possesses speed that Ryder can't compete against.
Michael Carter of Boxing Tonight points out that Saunders also utilizes good footwork and possesses all-around skills while noting that Ryder "is no mug":
But being "no mug" doesn't mean he has the skills to keep up with the speed and technical prowess of Saunders.
Superb will put together a workmanlike victory against The Gorilla.
He is faster, more technically sound and equally as powerful as his challenger, and he'll easily defend his title Saturday night.
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