They are both very skillful but I think Canelo would beat him. Saunders might be a better defensive boxer but he doesn't have Canelo's hand speed or wicked combinations and body punches. Canelo has one punch fight ending power to head or body with either hand while Saunders is a clever boxer with average power.
Saunders has natural boxing instincts.
Canelo does everything well, but nothing spectacular.
I think Saunders is the better boxer, but Canelo the better professional.
Thought about it a lot. Skill for skill, I'd go with Saunders. I like his slickness and overall movement better than Canelo's sometimes cement feet. Compared to Canelo, Saunders has also shown more stamina in his last fight.
Head to head, right now, I'd pick Saunders in a close one.
Tricky question....
I'd say Canelo has better pure boxing / striking skills, but Billy is better skilled in how he uses his boxing to the strength of his attributes. He is much more awkward, has fast hands and doesn't need to rely on power and so can throw more while avoiding being hit.
Skill for skill Billy Joe he has shown to have better footwork and overall defence. Canelo is the overall better complete fighter showing he is more versatile. Canelo has skills but tends to get sloppy and lazy at times.