Word out of Scotland is that Ricky Burns gets his long awaited World Title shot when he challenges Roman Martinez for the WBO Super Featherweight crown on the 4 September in Glasgow at the Kelvin Hall. Burns 27, steps up in class against unbeaten Puerto Rican Martinez who will be making his third defence. Martinez ironically won it on British soil when he stopped Nicky Cook back in March 2009.
Also scheduled for the undercard is an intriguing Commonwealth Featherweight title fight between experienced champion John Simpson who fights on home soil & unbeaten prospect Stephen Smith. Simpson an 8 year veteran who sports a 21-6(9) ledger is also a former British champion. For his part Smith 24, puts his 10-0(6) record on the line along with his reputation as one of the top prospects in Britain. Smith narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2008 Olympics but has taken vengeance sweeping aside all before him in the pro ranks. This will be his acid test though.
Also appearing is Paul Appleby who makes his debut fighting for Frank Warren. It will be one time bright prospect Appleby, still only 23’s first fight in 16 months when he fought valiantly though ultimately unsuccessfully against Martin Lindsay.
