Earlier today, Andy Lee confirmed that the first defence of his WBO Middleweight Title is to take place in Limerick. He will fight in Thomond Park against unbeaten British rival Billy Joe Saunders on September 19th.
The Limerick man spoke to Off the Ball this afternoon to speak about the announcement. "Thomond Park have been very accommodating and wanted the fight there". He also spoke to Ger and Adrian about returning to Thomond Park at Christmas time with the World title after he won the belt last December.
Saunders and previous opponent Peter Quillin are very difficult opponents according to Lee. The champion feels the hometown advantage will be a hindrance to Saunders but he says "there will be a respect there" from the Limerick crowd.
"Once the bell goes, the crowd comes an external factor" Lee told the guys about fighting in Limerick. He also says that his preparation wont be any different to his training for his previous two fights.
Lee expects near to 40,000 in the historic Limerick venue for the fight. He told Ger that the fight could have also taken place in London in Upton Park, earning him more money but "it's a once in a lifetime opportunity" to fight in his hometown as World Champion.
