Bellew handed Miranda test

Tony Bellew: Will be tested by former title challenger Edison Miranda (pic lawrence lustig)

Liverpool's Tony Bellew will take a step up the ladder when he takes on Edison Miranda in a co-headline bout alongside Darren Barker's return to the ring on September 8.

"He's a world class name and the sort of guy I've been looking to fight for some time now."
Tony Bellew Quotes of the week

Billed 'London Calling', the Alexandra Palace card will now feature Bellew in a WBC international light-heavyweight fight against a man who has been in with the very best.

Miranda has fought Arthur Abraham (twice), Kelly Pavlik, Lucien Bute and Andre Ward, and while losing on each occasion, the 31-year-old remains a dangerous puncher with 30 of his 35 wins coming by stoppage.

But Bellew was impressive in his last outing with a brutal fifth round KO of Danny McIntosh in Liverpool in April, and says this is the step up he has been craving as he looks to prove he can mix it at world level.

"He's a world class name and the sort of guy I've been looking to fight for some time now," said the 29-year-old.

Level

"When you look at the guys he's fought and the titles he's boxed for you know you are sharing the ring with someone who is at the top level and it should be a great fight as he can punch and he comes to fight.

"McIntosh was a European champ and I beat him up convincingly so I've proved I belong at European level at least, but I've always thought that I can aim higher and if I can do a job on Miranda then that will prove it.

"I'm buzzing for this fight and I've already organised half a dozen coaches to come down from Liverpool on the day, and I'm sure there will be more as this is a proper fight not to be missed."

Barker will take on Italian middleweight champion Simone Rotolo for the IBF Inter Continental middleweight title on his return to the ring after he underwent hip surgery following his brave world title challenge against Sergio Martinez.

"It's been a while since we've had a big show in the capital and we are back with a bang on September 8," said promoter Eddie Hearn.

"Bellew v Miranda is a mouthwatering clash and I'm excited to see the return of Darren Barker who is already looking in great shape. There are six title fights on a packed eleven fight card so fans and Sky viewers can expect to be royally entertained at the Palace."

Hearn confirmed Bellew has signed a one-fight deal with Matchroom while he awaits a hearing next month to sort out his contractual dispute with Frank Warren.