Billy Joe Saunders is hoping that Gennady Golovkin can beat Canelo Alvarez because he reckons the Kazakh is willing to share the ring with him unlike the Mexican.

The two Middleweights clash on May 5th with Golovkin’s WBC, WBA, IBO and IBF belts all on the line and WBO champion Saunders, speaking to iFL TV, knows who he will be backing.

“I know Canelo doesn’t want it [the fight] but Golovkin will. So I’m hoping Golovkin wins so we can have that big unification. If he doesn’t then there are plenty of other big fights out there for me,” said Saunders.

28-year-old Saunders though first has business of his own to deal with in the tough Martin Murray next month at The O2 Arena in London.

The slick Hatfield boxer made it clear that his focus for the moment is solely on the St Helens fighter.

“The main thing is I can’t overlook Murray. I can’t say I’m looking into this one or that. Everyone goes on about the Golovkin fight but Martin Murray is not beat yet,” Saunders said.

“He’s training very hard and been in with the greats. He brings a hard fight and he’s got very good experience and that goes a long way in the boxing ring,” he said.

Having turned professional with leading promoter Frank Warren, Saunders also discussed his promotional future and pledged loyalty to the man who has guided his career since entering the paid ranks.

“I’ve been loyal to Frank Warren from day one and continue to be loyal with him. I’m a man of my word. Frank Warren has been very good to me and I’ve earned some serious money with Frank,” Saunders said.

“Would I have earned the same money with Eddie Hearn that I earned with Frank Warren? I don’t think so. I still think Frank Warren is one of the best promoters in Europe because of how he builds fighters. I’m a Frank Warren man and I’m happy where I’m at,” he added.

In the interview Saunders also took time to pay tribute to Irish boxer Andy Lee who announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 33. Saunders captured the world title from Lee in 2015 and was quick to praise his one-time opponent.

“He’s done unbelievable things to come from where he has come from. He has earned a lot of money and been sensible with it. I’m happy that he has a lot to show for it.

“I think he’s done the right thing and I wish him all the best. It’s time to enjoy his family now. He’s an absolute gentleman and I have nothing but love and respect for him,” Saunders said.

Buy tickets to watch Billy Joe Saunders defend his World title against Martin Murray on April 14th at the O2 Arena.

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