Ricky Burns looks for Newcastle warm-up on Khan undercard

Nov 25 2009 Hugh Keevins
PEOPLE don't normally go to Newcastle in December to warm up for anything but Scotland's Ricky Burns is bucking the trend to chase world glory.

The Commonwealth super featherweight champion is in line for a shot at the world title against Raul Martinez next year.

And he'll take away any ring rustiness with a warm-up fight on the undercard of a bill topped by Amir Khan and his defence of the world lightwelterweight crown at the Metro Arena on December 5.

Burns, from Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, already believes he's world class but if that self assessment is wrong he knows the reality check will come against Martinez.

Discussions over money and the venue for the contest are ongoing and details are due to be announced soon.

The fight will be the realisation of a long-held ambition for Burns who said: "I've dreamed about becoming a world champion since I started boxing at the age of 12.

"I see myself up there with the best but even if I lose to Martinez at least I've established myself at British and Commonwealth level.
"But I think my performance level goes up the better the calibre of opponent I'm facing.
Doubted
"This time in Newcastle I don't even know who I'm in the ring with yet but this one's about getting warmed up for the fight of my life."

A world title win would not only vindicate Ricky's opinion of himself but also silence those he feels are always ready to criticise him.

He said: "A lot of people have doubted me over the years.
"When I fought Alex Arthur for the European title three years ago I let my heart rule my head by taking a fight I wasn't ready for.

"I lost in what was only the 13th fight of my professional career. I'm a different guy now.

"I'm not perfect every time I fight because it's only human to have off nights occasionally, but there's a chance of a world title and I intend to grab it with both hands."

Burns has already made three successful defences of his Commonwealth crown and his self-belief is growing.

He said: "Self confidence is a good thing. I'm only 26 and know there's more to come from me.

"This is the most exciting period of my career and it's great to be on the same bill as Khan.

"I've trained for 10 weeks solid to make sure I don't let myself down on a night like that one."

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/...tle-warm-up-on-khan-undercard-86908-21848810/

 

I know what you're saying, but sometimes it's refreshing to hear boxers being realistic.

 

I'm glad the fight is off too. Now bring on Martinez.:bbb