Norwich's unbeaten Liam Walsh will make a huge jump up in clash
when he challenges WBO lightweight champion Ricky Burns at London's
ExCel on December 15.
The 26-year-old has won the Commonwealth and WBO European crowns
but has not faced anyone in the league of Scotland's Burns, who
will be making his third title defence.
For Burns, 29, the fight follows hot on the heels of his 'Battle
of Britain' clash with Dagenham's Kevin Mitchell.
"To fight for the world title is my dream and I'm going to cause
a big upset on December 15 at the Excel when I take the crown from
Burns," Walsh, 13 - 0 (10 KOs).
"It's always been on my mind that I would fight him one day and
it's now here. He's a great champion, I've studied and watched
him throughout his career and I know I've got the tools to beat
him.
"He's looked great in the last few years and he did a stunning
job on Mitchell. He's in the prime of his career now so when
I beat him people will know that I've beaten the best.
"I'll have massive support from my 'Farmy Army' fans who will be
coming to the Excel creating an electric atmosphere."
Burns added: "Nothing stirs the sports fans like a good
English-Scottish showdown just like my fight against Mitchell did
and the fans are in for a real treat before Christmas with this
one.
"Walsh is a good strong fighter, he's unbeaten and this is his
big chance to win the world title.
"I was ringside when he fought Appleby and he showed tremendous
heart and strength to come through when he was deep in trouble.
I'll be in the best shape possible and will leave nothing to chance
for this one.
"The big motivator is a showdown with Broner, who I was accused
of avoiding last year. Since moving up to lightweight and
winning the world title my stock and profile has increased and now
that it's a unification fight it's a much bigger fight than
before."
23/10/2012 14:56:08