Billy Joe Saunders vs. Yoann Bloyer: Winner, Recap and Reaction

Billy Joe Saunders (22-0, 12 KO) did what he was supposed to do on Friday at Wembley Arena in London. He stopped Yoann Bloyer (17-28) in the fourth round to set up his world-title opportunity against WBO middleweight champion Andy Lee on September 19.

This fight functioned as a public sparring session for Saunders. Bloyer's horrible win-loss record was a dead giveaway that Saunders was looking for a workout and not a challenge in this one.

The bout with Lee was already scheduled and agreed upon, and Lee was a part of the Box Nation commentary team for the fight. Saunders hadn't fought in eight months since he won a hard-fought decision over Chris Eubank Jr. in November 2014, and he looked a bit rusty. 

His body looked slightly more fleshy than it has in recent fights. Boxing News Network noticed the lack of firmness to Saunders' upper body:

Bloyer actually landed a couple of hard shots to let Saunders know he was there for business, but his success would be short lived.

Saunders found his rhythm and would outclass the 32-year-old Frenchman with superior talent. Bloyer would hit the canvas on three occasions with the final knockdown happening early in the fourth round. Bloyer got to his feet after a hard right hand sent him to his knees, but the referee wisely didn't allow him to take more punishment.

Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images

Saunders and Lee both represent the Travelers' community, so the upcoming championship bout carries cultural significance. The two met face to face for a press event captured in the video below from IFL TV:

The Saunders-Lee matchup is a classic example of boxer vs. slugger. Lee is a defensively flawed brawler who is known for his powerful right hand. The 31-year-old from London has decimated the likes of John Jackson and Matt Korobov with his not-so secret weapon.

During the Box Nation post-fight interview on Friday, Saunders said Lee would not be landing one of his signature right hands on his chin. 

When Saunders is at his best, he's a slick boxer who works well behind his jab and fires sharp combinations.

Classic style matchups like Saunders vs. Lee have great potential for boxing fans, and thanks to the former's win on Friday, we'll get to see it take place in about seven weeks. 

Saunders will need to tighten up his defense and physique if he hopes to come away victorious and with his first world title.

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