Wednesday 18 February 2015 15:05, UK
Ricky Burns will face fellow former world champion Omar Figueroa in San Antonio on May 9, live on Sky Sports.
Unbeaten Texan Figueroa, 25, vacated his WBC lightweight title after beating Daniel Estrada and provides a stern test for the Scot on his American debut.
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for Ricky.
I've always felt that Burns vs. Figueroa would be a fight of the year contender and now it's made.
"I've always felt that Burns v Figueroa would be a fight of the year contender and now it's made. Ricky is so motivated for this fight, it’s live on CBS in the States, Sky Sports in the UK; it doesn't get much bigger.”
Burns lost his WBO lightweight crown to Terence Crawford in March 2014 and suffered a loss to Dejan Zlaticanin in his comeback bout before getting back on track against Alexandre Lapelley in October.
And the 31-year-old from Coatbridge admits he is 'genuinely excited' at the prospect of his Stateside bow.
"The last time I felt this excited ahead of a fight was when I was fighting the big names and and fighting for my world titles - Roman Martinez, Michael Katsidis or when I boxed Kevin (Mitchell)," he said.
"This is going to bring the best out of me."
Burns' bout with Figueroa is part of an eye-catching night of boxing that includes Frankie Gavin, Matthew Macklin, Sam Eggington and Kal and Gamal Yafai.
