Saunders with Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn

Unbeaten British prospect Bradley Saunders was a keen observer when fellow Brits Dave Ryan and John Wayne Hibbert clashed for the Commonwealth junior welterweight title in London on Saturday.

The former Olympian was scheduled to face Ryan in April but withdrew after damaging tendons and ligaments in his right hand during training. Hibbert stepped in and managed to floor the defending titleholder twice before succumbing to a ferocious comeback from Ryan who prevailed in Round 9.

“I thought Dave Ryan was very, very good,” said Saunders, who is promoted by Matchroom Boxing. “To win after suffering two knockdowns proves how he good he really is. He shows time and again what it takes to be a champion because he’s solid. I couldn’t be happier for Dave Ryan, to be honest.

“I would say he is one of the most underrated fighters in Britain.”

Saunders (12-0, 9 knockouts) is now looking to challenge Ryan for the Commonwealth strap later in the year.

He said, “I think a lot of fans will want to see me and Dave Ryan fight. I contacted Eddie Hearn to say that I will fight him anytime. I’ll fight anyone, he knows that. I’ve had a few injuries, but I’m back punching now and my hand feels a lot better.

“Hopefully I’ll be back out in September, and again in October.”

Information courtesy of a press release by Tim Rickson, Sports Marketing Manager

Tom Gray is a member of the British Boxing Writers’ Association and has contributed to various publications. Follow him on Twitter: @Tom_Gray_Boxing