Burns v Relikh: Preview of WBA super-lightweight title fight
By Richard Damerell
Image:Ricky Burns defends his WBA super-lightweight title against Kiryl Relikh tonight
Your one-stop preview for the WBA super-lightweight fight between Ricky Burns and Kiryl Relikh at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow on Friday, live on Sky Sports.
Background
The Scotsman became a three-weight world champion when he stoppedMichele Di Rocco to claim the vacant WBA title in May and will make the first defence of his belt against Relikh, an unbeaten mandatory challenger.
Big fights could lie ahead for Burns and Adrien Broner, the outspoken American, is likely to face the Coatbridge man if he emerges victorious.
But the dangerous Relikh could ruin his future plans if he pulls off a stunning upset win in front of the champion's Scottish support.
Image:Tale of the Tape - Ricky Burns v Kiryl Relikh
What Burns says
Burns says he is not distracted by a potential fight with Adrien Broner
What Relikh says
I have seen him fight and I am confident but I know this will be hard. He has been a great fighter, but it is my turn now.
What the experts say
Ricky's just not getting the recognition he deserves. We are talking about a world champion six years ago and a guy who went on to win at two more weights.
Ricky's performances are really good: he has a good style, his jab is brilliant and he gets the job done.
To be a world champion you've got to be a great fighter. To be two-weight you've got to be exceptional, but to be three-weight, you've got to be elite.
The one thing Ricky doesn't do is take his eye off the ball and that's got him where he is today.
Burns is fully focused on tonight's fight with Relikh, live on Sky Sports
The time draws near...
Ricky Burns will be in action this weekend as he defends his WBA Super-lightweight title against Kiryl Relikh tomorrow night live on Sky Sports 2 from 8pm.