‘Nothing as good as Glasgow’ says Burns as he eyes farewell fight

Former three-weight world champion Ricky Burns is planning one final hurrah in Glasgow before calling time on his illustrious career.

The 36-year-old lightweight is fighting on the undercard of compatriot Josh Taylor’s World Boxing Super Series showdown with Regis Prograis against Welshman and former WBC featherweight champion, Lee Selby.

Although the Scot is targeting his 44th win tonight at London’s O2 Arena, he already has his sights set on another duel on home soil.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there. There was talk about this fight being in Glasgow and I must admit I would have loved it back home as the support I get is unbelievable,” said Burns, pictured, who has held world honours at super featherweight, lightweight and super lightweight.

“If I can go out at the O2, put on a good performance and get the win, then, who knows, maybe I can get another big fight night in Glasgow at some point.

“I’ve had some incredible experiences there. I’ve been talking to some folk about the great atmospheres for fighting and I’ve told them, there’s nothing that is as good as doing it in Glasgow.”

Selby, 32, is certainly no walkover, however, and has only suffered defeat twice in 29 professional bouts. “People are saying maybe he is under more pressure but I am not looking at it that way. They used to say that about me when I was champion,” Burns explained. “I block it all out.

“I need to make sure I win and that’s all I’m thinking about. At the end of the day you have to go in there as the guy across from you is looking to set about you.

“I’ve boxed a few times in London at Wembley but this is my first time in the O2. I’ve watched a few guys from my stable fighting there and it’s a great venue.”