We put Kiryl Relikh under the spotlight ahead of his showdown with Ricky Burns

Kiryl Relikh challenges Ricky Burns for the WBA super-lightweight title on Friday night, so we decided to learn more about the mystery man from Minsk.

Little is known about the Belarusian, who will attempt to stun Burns and his Scottish support when the first bell rings at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, live on Sky Sports. 

We asked Relikh to reveal more about his background, including his boxing idol, favourite football team, and his strange nickname...

Tell us about your home life?

I was born in Baranovichi, but now live in Minsk. I am married, my wife lives back home with my two sons, who are aged one and two. I speak to them all the time on Skype. I want to do the job and go home to see them with a world title.

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How long have you been a boxer?

All my life. I had 300 amateur fights and think I only lost something like 15. No more. I did not go to the Olympics. I boxed in the European games (Under 17s) in 2008 and won bronze. I have been professional since I was 22.

Who is your boxing idol?

I have seen what Gennady Golovkin has done and I want to do the same. I want to be recognised like Golovkin.

Like most, I am a Golovkin fan. He is a hero of mine, not just because of the way he fights but because he has shown the world what people from this part of Europe can do. He is a superstar and I want to be too.

Do you follow any other sports?

I like football. I still play football now, when I am not boxing.

Who is your favourite team?

Manchester City of course!

Have you been to City's ground?

No...not yet. Ricky [Hatton] has never invited me.

What do you know about Ricky Burns?

I know he was a world champion and I have a lot of respect for him. 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. I have trained for 12 rounds and I want to get in the ring as soon as I can.

Are you aware that Adrien Broner could be watching?

So what? He means nothing to me.

Why are you called the Mad Bee?

I don't know. I am no Mad Bee, but I will sting Ricky Burns.

You can watch Ricky Burns against Kiryl Relikh, England's tour of Bangladesh, plus Premier League football and the Japan Grand Prix on Sky Sports. Upgrade now and enjoy three months at half price!