Billy Joe Saunders retains his title in lackluster performance!
After ten rather flat rounds, WBO world super middleweight champion “Superb” Billy Joe Sanders (29-0, 14 KO’s) scored a clutch eleventh round stoppage over Marcelo “El Terrible” Coceres (15 KO’s).
Saunders decided to make his American debut on the under-card of the YouTube grudge match between KSI versus Logan Paul. The often times unpredictable UK native did so due to the amount of attention that the event was on track to retain. He almost left a completely bitter taste in those viewers’ eyes.
Just as Saunders was making his American debut, so too was Coceres. Not only was El Terrible making his US debut, it was his first fight outside of his native Argentina. On paper, the assumption was for Superb Saunders to walk through Coceres. Once in the ring however, Coceres would prove to be a very worthy foe.
THE BREAKDOWN
Traditionally, Saunders is a very slick and nimble fighter. Yet in against the Argentine, Superb was notably flat-footed and somewhat easily punched.
Saunders controlled the first few uneventful periods with his jab and frequent feints. Around the fourth and fifth rounds, Coceres began finding his own rhythm, which saw him counter-punching well and consistently landing a straight right down the pipe.
The sixth round was one the best of the night for Marcelo Coceres. The first half of the period was nip and tuck. Although down the stretch, Coceres would score at will with his jab and the straight right to the teeth was definitely clicking. At conclusion of the 3-minutes, Saunders appeared to be a bit discouraged.
Saunders does a good job of ascertaining himself over the next two rounds, yet he was still not pulling away in any significant manner. Coceres likely stole a close tenth round with an eye catching last minute uppercut.
Heading into round eleven, safe bets saw this nail-biter heading to the scorecards. Then shockingly, Superb drops and badly hurts Coceres early in the period. In fact, El Terrible was so shook up that after quickly rising to his feet he went back down to steady himself during his eight count.
The game challenger did finally find his feet and would continue. With his man seriously impaired, the champion pounces again and plants him back on the canvas.
For a second time, Coceres beat the count and was permitted to resume fighting. That was until Saunders connected with a picture-perfect right-uppercut that finished the night.
After going down a third time, referee Ray Corona immediately waived the bout off.
In his post-fight interview, Saunders apologized to the crowd at hand for his overall lackluster performance. The champion was hoping that this showing could lead to a fight with boxing big dog Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.
At the moment, it seems very unlikely he will land that fight. However, this performance could entice WBA champion into wanting to take advantage!
By: Bakari Simpson
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