By Mark Havey: WBO lightweight champion Ricky Burns (32-2, KO’s 9) is set to face the tough Kevin Mitchell (33-1, KO’s 24). I have been hoping this fight would be made. It should be a brilliant fight, maybe even a classic.

It shows the kind of champion that Burns aims to be. it’s a very dangerous fight. Burns isn’t a big puncher, But Mitchell is.

Ricky burns must be one of the nicest people in boxing. He hasn’t always been given the acclaim he deserved. Then he faced Michael Katsidis and displayed his worth. It was a fight that many, including me, said he wouldn’t win. I had focused my thoughts on one thing, the warrior quality. It’s a quality Katsidis has, and Burns doesn’t. But Ricky didnt need it. he showed just how smart he can be and took the dangerous Australian apart with skill, not power. He was rightfully rewarded with a win on points.

Kevin Mitchell is one of my favourite boxers right now. His 8th round TKO win against John Murray was thrilling and had me on the edge of my seat.

I even voted for it as fight of the year 2011. Mitchell has also fought Katsidis and suffered a 3rd round stoppage. It was a perilous situation in which many thought Mitchell’s career was over. fortunately, after a break he came back strong. People will make something of this common opponent but Kevin Mitchell is a different fighter now. He stopped partying during training camp, he changed his circle of friends and seems to be in a better place.

It’s a hard fight to pick. I have a feeling Kevin Mitchell could win but I have been wrong picking against Burns before. If Ricky fights in a similar way to how he did against Katsidis then he has a good shot at winning. But if he tries to brawl then Mitchell wins without a doubt.