It’s evident that Billy Joe Saunders has undergone a significant physical transformation following his bout with Canelo Alvarez in May 2021. The once-promising former world champion appears to have packed on a substantial amount of weight, with reports suggesting a gain of around 50 pounds since the high-profile fight. This drastic change in physique raises concerns about Saunders’ ability to make a successful return to the ring and resume his boxing career at the 168-lb division.
Saunders’ physical transformation has sparked discussions about the influence of wealth in the world of professional boxing. Canelo Alvarez’s lucrative payouts not only secure victories for him but also seem to have a detrimental effect on his opponents’ post-fight trajectories. Fighters like Jermell Charlo and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. have struggled to regain their competitive edge after facing Canelo, with financial windfalls potentially dampening their motivation to continue training and competing at an elite level.
The challenge for Saunders lies in shedding the excess weight he has gained and recommitting himself to the rigorous training regimen required for professional boxing. With a significant financial cushion from his fight against Canelo, the temptation to remain inactive and indulge in a sedentary lifestyle looms large. Promoter Eddie Hearn’s efforts to arrange potential matchups for Saunders, such as a rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. or a showdown with Conor Benn, may prove futile if the former champion is unable to overcome his current physical condition and lack of motivation.
As Saunders navigates the aftermath of his defeat to Canelo Alvarez, the road ahead appears fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The once-promising career of the former two-division world champion now hangs in the balance, with questions surrounding his ability to make a successful comeback and reclaim his status as a top contender in the super middleweight division. The cautionary tale of Billy Joe Saunders serves as a stark reminder of the pitfalls of complacency and the transformative power of wealth in the world of professional boxing.