McGUIGAN

IN a three-fight sequence over the next 12 months, Josh Taylor has the opportunity to really make his name.

Taylor debuts in the super lightweight World Boxing Super Series tonight against unbeaten American Ryan Martin. Victory in Glasgow sees the winner progress to the semi-finals where Ivan Baranchyk awaits with his IBF title on the line.

The winner of that meets either Regis Prograis, who outpointed Manchester’s Terry Flanagan last week, or WBA champion Kiryl Relikh for the Muhammad Ali trophy.

So this is the biggest test in Taylor’s short, 13-fight career. And for Martin. I had not even fought for the British featherweight title at the same stage.

These are very different times. The structure of the sport does not allow prospects to learn their trade by increments fighting monthly at small hall shows. These days you do your work in the gym and learn on the job. But Taylor (above) is ready. Since winning the Commonwealth title two years ago in only his seventh bout, the demand has steadily increased.

His defence against Ohara Davies last year marked a real step up. Viktor Postol, who had lost previously only to the exceptional Terence Crawford, was another tough opponent last time out.

Martin won several national titles at lightweight. He moved up to super lightweight in March to despatch Luis Eduardo Florez and beat Breidis Prescott in May. He’s unbeaten in 22.

We have not given Taylor an easy path. That has always been the policy.

We believe we have a special talent on our hands. This tournament offers him the chance to show that. And you can see it all free to air on the World Boxing Super Series YouTube channel.

Follow Barry on Twitter at @ClonesCyclone @McGuigans_Gym @CyclonePromo