Thursday 19 March 2015 19:10, UK
Promoter Eddie Hearn has delivered world title shots for Kevin Mitchell and Lee Selby after announcing the pair will jointly headline an action-packed card at London’s O2 on May 30.
Mitchell challenges Jorge Linares for the WBC world lightweight title while Selby takes on undefeated Russian Evgveny Gradovich for the IBF featherweight strap.
Also featuring on the bill will be the toughest test of Anthony Joshua’s professional career to date, with the Finchley-based heavyweight faces experienced American Kevin Johnson.
Speaking on Sky Sports News HQ, Hearn said: "Kevin Mitchell I believe, is one of the most talented fighters in British boxing and he’s also one of the most likeable fighters in British boxing. He lives and breathes the sport and that is what you have to do to achieve at the highest level.
"Kevin really has an opportunity to go out and blow the whole lightweight division apart by beating Jorge Linares and the support he will receive at the O2 will be fantastic.
"He's a West Ham boy who put in a wonderful performance against (Daniel) Estrada on January 31. For someone like Jorge Linares to come, and for Kevin Mitchell to get that opportunity again, is big. I believe that finally he will fulfil his dream of becoming not just champion of the world but the WBC lightweight champion of the world."
Selby has 20 wins from 21 fights and Hearn insists he has no qualms about pitching the talented Welshman against the highly-rated Gradovich.
“Since Lee Selby has joined up with us he’s been absolutely punch-perfect," Hearn said.
"He’s actually the favourite going into the Gradevich fight which goes to show what people think of Lee Selby. Gradevich is a top fighter. He’s coming here as the champion but Lee Selby is someone that I believe can go on and become a real great of British boxing and May 30 is his night.”
On the task facing Olympic gold medallist Joshua, Hearn said: "Kevin is a big step for Anthony Joshua and signifies his first real challenge in the pro ranks.
"He brings personality and attitude as well as plenty of ring craft - I'm buzzing for this show already and fans can expect plenty of other major announcements for the card.”
