Billy Joe Saunders (born 30 August 1989) is a former British professional boxer, widely recognized as the first fighter from the Romanichal travelling community to win world titles in two weight classes. He grew up near Hatfield, Hertfordshire, in a travelling family with a rich boxing heritage. His great-grandfather, Absolom Beeney, was well-known in traditional bare-knuckle boxing circles.
As an amateur, Saunders boxed with Cheshunt ABC and Hoddesdon ABC, where he built an impressive record. He represented Great Britain at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the welterweight division, winning his opening bout before being eliminated in the second round. That same year, he claimed gold at the EU Championships, establishing himself as one of Britain’s top amateur prospects.
Net Worth and Earnings (2025)
As of 2025, Billy Joe Saunders’ estimated net worth is around $2 million (USD). Over his career, he is believed to have earned more than $10 million in total fight purses and endorsements.
His highest single-fight payday came from his 2021 unification bout with Canelo Álvarez, where he reportedly earned over $8 million, including bonuses and pay-per-view revenue.
Apart from boxing, Saunders’ income sources have included endorsements, sponsorship deals, and media appearances. However, his long period of inactivity and legal issues in recent years have slowed his financial growth.
Personal Life
Billy Joe Saunders is known to have had a long-term relationship with a woman named Ruby, with whom he shares three children — two sons and a daughter, born in 2008, 2010, and 2017, respectively.
As of 2025, Saunders has not confirmed any new relationship and tends to keep his personal life private.
He remains proud of his travelling heritage and has often spoken about representing his community on the global boxing stage.
Age, Height, and Fighting Style
Age (as of October 2025): 36 years old
Date of Birth: 30 August 1989
Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
Reach: Approximately 71 inches (180 cm)
Stance: Southpaw
Saunders is known for his technical precision, slick movement, and counterpunching ability. His ability to control distance and rhythm made him one of the most difficult fighters to hit cleanly during his prime years.
Professional Career
Saunders turned professional on 28 February 2009 and quickly gained attention with his sharp southpaw style, fast hands, and tactical movement. His early career featured multiple knockout victories and regional titles, including the Commonwealth, British, and European middleweight belts, setting the stage for world championship success.
He became a two-division world champion, holding:
WBO Middleweight Title (2015–2018)
WBO Super-Middleweight Title (2019–2021)
Saunders’ biggest career win came in December 2015, when he defeated Andy Lee by majority decision to capture his first world title. The bout was historic as it marked the first world championship contest between two members of the travelling community.
Throughout his career, he defended his titles against several notable opponents, including Artur Akavov, Chris Eubank Jr., Shefat Isufi, Martin Murray, and Marcelo Coceres.
Fight Against Canelo Álvarez and Inactivity
In May 2021, Saunders faced Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez in a massive unification fight. The bout ended after eight rounds when Saunders’s corner stopped the contest due to a fractured orbital bone and cheekbone. It was his first professional loss and left him sidelined for an extended period.
Following the defeat, Saunders took a break from boxing, focusing on recovery and family life. For nearly four years, he remained inactive, prompting speculation about whether he would ever return to the sport.
Latest Career News (2025 Update)
As of 2025, Billy Joe Saunders has hinted strongly at a comeback. Reports indicate he joined a training camp in Thailand, where he shed around 50 pounds while preparing for a potential return.
Promoter Frank Warren confirmed a meeting with Saunders to discuss a possible fight later in the year. There is talk of Saunders returning at light heavyweight (175 lbs) in September 2025 before potentially moving back down to super-middleweight.
A rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. remains one of the most discussed possibilities among fans and boxing insiders. However, some analysts believe that Saunders’ move to a higher weight could be motivated by lucrative international fight opportunities, possibly in the Middle East.
Outside the ring, Saunders made headlines in April 2025 when he clashed with security personnel attempting to enter Eubank Jr.’s dressing room to inspect gloves before a bout with Conor Benn. This incident reignited talk of their long-standing rivalry.
Later in 2025, Saunders faced legal issues after being arrested in Lincolnshire for involvement in illegal hare-coursing activities. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, was fined over £3,500, sentenced to community service, and banned from owning dogs for five years. The incident added further controversy to an already eventful year for the former champion.
Achievements and Career Highlights
Billy Joe Saunders’ professional career is decorated with impressive accomplishments:
Two-Division World Champion: WBO Middleweight (2015–2018) and WBO Super-Middleweight (2019–2021).
First Romanichal Traveller to win world titles in two different weight divisions.
Regional Titles: Commonwealth, British, and European Middleweight Champion (2012–2015).
Historic Victory over Andy Lee in 2015 to claim his first world title.
Notable Wins over Chris Eubank Jr., David Lemieux, and Martin Murray.
Professional Record (as of 2025): 30 Wins – 1 Loss – 14 Knockouts (KO Ratio: 47%).
Frequently Asked Questions
What titles has Billy Joe Saunders won?
He has held the WBO Middleweight and WBO Super-Middleweight world titles, as well as the Commonwealth, British, and European middleweight belts.
When was Billy Joe Saunders’ last fight?
His last professional fight took place on 8 May 2021, where he lost to Canelo Álvarez via stoppage after the eighth round.
Is Billy Joe Saunders retired?
No, he has not officially retired. As of 2025, he is training for a potential comeback later in the year.
Who might he fight in his comeback?
A rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. is the most likely high-profile bout being discussed. He may also fight at light heavyweight before returning to super-middleweight.
What controversies has he faced?
Saunders has faced several controversies, including legal troubles in 2025 related to hare-coursing and a confrontation with police during his arrest.
How many children does Billy Joe Saunders have?
He has three children — two sons and one daughter — with his former partner, Ruby.
Final Thoughts
Billy Joe Saunders remains one of the most naturally gifted boxers of his generation — a fighter whose technical skills and ring IQ once made him a world-class champion. After years away from the sport, his anticipated comeback in 2025 could mark a new beginning in a career filled with both triumph and turbulence.
Whether he returns to reclaim world titles or simply to end his career on his own terms, Saunders’ next move will be closely watched by boxing fans around the world.
