Billy Joe Saunders after beating Tony Hill

IT took just 30 seconds for the referee to stop the vacant Commonwealth Middleweight title fight between Hatfield’s devastating Billy Joe Saunders and Tony Hill at the Royal Albert Hall this evening.

Billy Joe Saunders in action against Tony Hill

In what was the first boxing show at the famous London venue for 13 years, Saunders caught Southampton’s Hill with a sensational shot moments after the encounter began.

With his opponent stunned, the Herts ace blew Hill away as he unloaded a barrage of punches forcing the referee to call a premature halt to proceedings.

The 22-year-old’s bout was the headlining act at the Royal Albert Hall after Nathan Cleverly’s WBO World Lightweight defence was called off due to the Welshman suffering from a virus.

His loss was Saunders’ gain as his display enhanced his growing reputation in the sport.

The Hatfield hitter has now won all 13 of his bouts since turning professional with Frank Warren after competing at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.