World Boxing Organization (WBO) President Francisco Valcárcel Mulero commented today on Billy Joe Saunders inability to defend his World Middleweight Championship, as per contractually agreed, against Demetrius Andrade on October 20th.

 

This after the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission voted today against granting him a boxing license following a failed doping test on August 30th.

 

“It is unfortunate that a boxer as talented as Saunders is facing this controversy and will not be able to defend the title,” said Valcarcel today. “The WBO will examine the situation with due diligence and proceed according to its ‘Rules & Regulations’ decide which is the proper course of action”.

 

Valcárcel, a practizing attorney, added that if Andrade fights the first available contender, the WBO Championship Committee will consider sanctioning the bout.

 

OCTOBER 11th Update:

 

WBO Statement on Billy Joe Saunders

 

WBO President Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, Esq reacted on Billy Joe Saunders’ public comments regarding his world title status:

 

“B.J. Saunders has voluntarily vacated the WBO Middleweight Title, and publicly apologized for his violation of the Massachusetts Athletic Commission’s anti-doping regulations”.

 

“Therefore, the clash between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondonkwa scheduled for October 20th will now be for the vacant World Crown”.

 

“Also, I will recommend to the WBO Executive Committee that Saunders receives a six month suspension for his transgression”.