Billy Joe Saunders, the unbeaten WBO super middleweight champion, has bagged his breakthrough fight against Canelo Alvarez on May 8, which can turn him into a household figure of the combat community.

However, not everything is fine for him. The Briton has reportedly contracted flu and has taken 10-days off from his training camp. While he is just two months away from the mega clash with Canelo Alvarez, this lay-off might harm his game plan. But this can also be a part of Saunder’s game plan.

Umpteen fans have claimed it as a hoax, as they believe Saunders is trying to make Alvarez underestimate him. But, the WBO champion has appeared worried as he revealed being sick. According to Boxing Scene ‘Superb’ Saunders has connected with AK & Barak Show to talk about his current condition.

 “I’m pushing for time now. Ten days off training. I’ve got the flu, not in shape. I’m still heavy. I’m still, you know, not started camp properly yet. No, I don’t have enough time. But, you know, I’m just gonna go over there, pick a check up and go home. And that’s about it,” said Billy Joe Saunders.

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A few hours back, he took to Twitter and posted a picture of his wristband, which appeared to be a hospital badge. In the caption, Saunders wrote, “5 days left.”

It should have concerned the fans right away. But several netizens billed it as a “physiological” move and asked if Saunders is actually in medical turmoil. They even accused him of trying to pull out from the fight in advance or have a ready-made excuse should he suffer his first defeat.

Here’s a look at some fan reactions to Saunder’s latest tweet.

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Billy Joe Saunders- A look at his last fight and next opponent

The undefeated 30-0, Saunders defended his WBO strap against Martin Murray in December. He won the fight via unanimous decision, and ended his year-long hiatus from the ring.

After a sensational win in December, Saunders will reappear within six months against the P4P King. Meanwhile, Canelo Alvarez has also been super active with three scheduled fights in six months. In May, Alvarez would keep his WBC, WBA, and Ring belts on the line, with Saunders bringing in the WBO strap. That said, the Brit will also put his undefeated record on the line.

However, the current medical complications with Saunders can have some significant impact on the matchup. But if it turns to a mind game, it will certainly be very interesting indeed.

What do you make of Billy Joe Saunders’ setback?

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