Highlights! Canelo Claims WBO Title With Eighth-Round Finish

Canelo Alvarez (56-1-2, 38 KO) worked over English southpaw Billy Joe Saunders (30-1, 14 KO) last night (Sat., May 8, 2021) live on DAZN from inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex., to claim the WBO super middleweight title. Alvarez came into this main event affair as the defending WBA (Super), WBC, and The Ring super middleweight champion.

Canelo opened up with early work to the body of Saunders. He kept out of trouble with quick head movement and landed the most meaningful shot early into the fight with a uppercut that nearly knocked Saunders’ mouthpiece out. Saunders fought back with unpredictable movement, a quick lead jab, and some solid power shots to surprise many in the middle rounds.

Canelo regained full control in the eighth round as he took a more aggressive approach on offense. He connected with heavy combinations to the head and body as Saunders tracked back around the large ring. Alvarez kept the pressure up until the last second of the frame.

In between rounds, Saunders had some damage appear on his right eye and seemed to have trouble seeing. His corner took a good look and eventually threw the towel in.

Check out the full fight video highlights below:

For complete ‘Canelo vs. Saunders’ results and coverage click here.