Potential Billy Joe Saunders vs. Callum Smith 168 Unification Match. How Does This Play Out?

I don't think it was ever going to happen. Smith is on a Matchroom track and was highly unlikely to fight on a Warren card onBT Sport or give BJS 50/50 for that matter. Ryder should be a good opponent and presumably they're still hoping to land Canelo at Anfield for the big finish?

This looked like a stunt by Frank and co to get some publicity and feed the idea that everyone is ducking BJS. Well, sure in a way they are, but more cause he doesn't have the popularity reward to match the level of risk. The reason for that is all on BJS who needs to get his head down and repair the damage with some exciting fights and good performances. Get your cheque book ready Frank..

 

BJS can fight everybody who hits so hard. He will run away all night and give his opponents many hugs. This will make the fight very boring. I watched him once and said to myself I will never watch you again.

 

Smith might be getting overrated a little. Groves was compromised, that's basically been admitted, and his jab is a huge element to his game. Also mentally ready to retire. The fact Groves was neck and neck with him in those conditions is interesting.

Saunders apparently matched up well with Groves in sparring according to Booth, and is roughly the same height, though smaller. Groves was a hefty SMW.

This suggests to me that Saunders could box Smith at least to the level Groves was, as the stature/reach proportions would be similar. He has less power, but his jab would be working better and his defence is better.

BJS only got clipped recently because he was being more aggressive than normal. When he's defensive, he's very hard to hit, except ... when he gasses.

Ultimately I think if he has the cardio of the Lemieux fight he will outpoint Smith. If he doesn't he will lose and might get stopped.

 

I am a Smith fan, I think he has something special, hard for me to pick against him.

 

No way is Saunders actually 5’11 though, there’s loads of photos of him next to kell brook where he’s at most an inch taller.

 

Benefit of the doubt and say Saunders UD, provided he hasn't pissed too much of his talent away. I just don't think Smith is a particularly skilled pugilist, more skilled than most Gallagher boys but honestly that's not saying much. Skoglund gave him issues, Holzken caused him problems, and I had him behind against Groves too before the stoppage. His get out of jail left hook isn't gonna save him against a slick as they come southpaw.