Thursday 18 September 2014 16:58, UK
Former world champion Ricky Burns will make his light-welterweight debut against Leonardo Esteban Gonzalez.
The Scot decided to step up a division after two straight defeats and will attempt to revive his career against the Argentine at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on October 4, live on Sky Sports.
His reign as WBO lightweight champion was ended by a points loss against Terence Crawford in March, while he then suffered a split decision defeat against Dejan Zlaticanin in June.
A bleak spell for Burns had started when he broke his jaw in a contentious draw with Raymundo Beltran, just over a year ago, but the Coatbridge fighter insists he can still compete for titles.
“I believe the move up in weight will really benefit me,” said Burns, who also claimed the WBO belt at super-featherweight.
“The lightweight limit was proving tougher to make in my last few fights so that’s now behind me and I can concentrate on working on my boxing in the gym with (trainer) Tony Sims.
“It has been a tough year following the Raymundo Beltran fight, but I’m feeling great in the gym and the fire and desire is still there to achieve big things.
“I’m looking to show in Leeds that I’ve still got the goods to challenge for major belts and ultimately, win another world title.”
On a busy bill, local favourite Josh Warrington will battle Davide Diele for the vacant European featherweight title.
Brian Rose returns against Juan Manuel Bonanni after his brave defeat by WBO light-middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade, with Callum Smith and Tyrone Nurse are also included on the undercard.
