Billy Joe Saunders in talks for boxing return in September as bitter Chris Eubank Jr rematch is targeted next year

BILLY JOE SAUNDERS has held talks to make a boxing return – which could lead to a rematch with Chris Eubank Jr next year.

The former two-weight world champion has been largely unseen since defeat to Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez, 31, last May.

Saunders – who pocketed £5m in the fight – was brutally beaten in round eight following a devastating uppercut.

It left him not only nursing four face fractures but also contemplating his career.

But after over a year on the sidelines, Saunders has began talking up a potential return to the ring.

And his promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed discussions with members of the boxer's entourage have taken place.

Hearn told talkSPORT: “I have actually, or some people that work with him. I’d like to see Billy Joe back in the ring.

“We’re talking to him about possible fights in September/October.

“He has got to get back in the gym and take the weight off because he’s notorious for enjoying himself in between camps.

“But he’s a very good fighter. Until he broke his eye socket against Canelo Alvarez, he was having a great fight."

COR BLIMEY

Prince Naseem Hamed drives £120k supercar through Windsor

TYSON'S FURY

FROM PARIS WITH LOVE

CASH FLO PROBLEMS

FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS

Saunders, 32, had said the only fight he would return for would be against Chris Eubank Jr, 32, who he beat on points in 2014.

But while Hearn admitted that rematch would not be the next move, it could materialise next year.

He said: “He’s controversial, he’s talented, and of course [you can do] the Billy Joe Saunders vs Chris Eubank Jr fight down the road.

"I don’t believe you’ll see that this year anyway. But I’d like to see John Ryder fight Billy Joe Saunders.

“They had a great fight a few years ago, it was very close.

“John’s got great momentum after the Daniel Jacobs fight and hopefully we can get Billy Joe back in the ring.”