WORLD MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders were full of respect for each other today at the press conference launching their title clash at Thomond Park on 19 September.
WBO champion Lee will officially defend the belt he won from Matt Korobov last year for the first time at the home of Munster rugby with promoters confirming that tickets for the fight would start from €30.
With the undefeated Saunders already the reigning British, European and Commonwealth champion, the Limerick man was full of praise for his challenger.
He was also very respectful of the venue for their bout:
“I would have driven past this stadium countless times and I always dreamed of fighting here. As soon as I won the title in December, my thoughts turned to defending here. It’ll be seen all over the world and I’m proud to put Limerick on that stage.
“How can I not respect [Saunders]? He’s undefeated and he was an Olympian. He’s going to take a lot of beating. His strength is his will and passion, how much he wants to win a fight.
“I’m fighting one of the best middleweights in the world. He’s British champion, European champion and undefeated. He’ll come with a spirited challenge and I’ll be trying to keep hold of my belt. We’re going to put on a great show.
Saunders was equally excited by the prospect of fighting in front of an estimated 34,000 fans, and suggested it wouldn’t feel like he was in enemy territory even if the vast majority of those attending are likely to be cheering on their own fighter.
“As soon as I pulled up to the place, I looked at it and it was a dream come true. Everyone wants home advantage but he’s the champion and he deserves it.”
