Billy Joe Saunders is aiming to make a boxing return later this year as Eddie Hearn hinted the rematch with Chris Eubank Jr could take place in 2023.

The former two-weight world champion, 32, hasn't fought since breaking his orbital against Mexican superstar Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, 31, last May - but has held talks about a potential comeback.

Saunders - who earned around £5m for his troubles in Texas - broke four bones in his face during his defeat to Canelo Alvarez.

His eye instantly swelled up and closed completely shut before his corner threw in the towel to stop the fight.

Saunders, who is a close friend of Tyson Fury's, was admitted to the hospital shortly after the fight and after surgery fans have barely heard a peep from him since, although he has occasionally piped up on social media every now and then over the past few months.

And according to Hearn, he is seriously considering making a comeback with discussions with his team currently ongoing.

Speaking to talkSPORT.com, he said: “I have actually, or some people that work with him.

“I’d like to see Billy Joe back in the ring.

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Billy Joe Saunders could rematch Chris Eubank Jr next year according to Eddie Hearn

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

“He has gotta 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."

British rivals Saunders and Eubank Jr have been at each other's throats for years.

The Brits battled one another back in November 2014, with Saunders inflicting a first professional defeat on Eubank.

But while Hearn knows a rematch would surely generate huge interest, he says it won't happen until next year at the latest.

He added: “Until he broke his eye socket against Canelo Alvarez, he was having a great fight.

“He’s controversial, he’s talented, and of course 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.”

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