Does Ricky Burns get the recognition he deserves?

By Boxing News - 10/04/2017 - Comments

Image: Does Ricky Burns get the recognition he deserves?

By Gavin Howie: With only a few days to go before Ricky Burns steps into the ring with Anthony Crolla at the Manchester Arena this Saturday night, I have been bemused at the lack of support or even press coverage for Burns. I have seen not 1 single piece of press for him in any of the newspapers, and only little coverage through online media. I don’t think that is fair on a future Hall of Famer.

Ricky Burns is one of only 3 British boxers to have won world titles in 3 different weight divisions, and the only one to have done so from Scotland. I just don’t think this guy gets the credit he deserves. You do not win world titles unless you can box, and certainly not a multiple weight world champion by fluke either. I have watched Burns many times live, and have always been impressed with him. He has a fantastic jab, great engine, and a decent chin. All his loses have came via decision, and only to very good boxers, including pound-for-pound top 5 Terence Crawford. He has never shown himself up, and always been gracious in defeat, and given a good account of himself.

The fight with Crolla, has been one of those matchups that has been talked about for a good few years now, and will finally take place this Saturday. I favor Burns to win by a unanimous points decision. His longer reach and jab will cause Crolla all sorts of problems and he can handle a fast pace, and fighting away from home no problem. I like Crolla, but I think his trainers tactics will be very negative as usual. This will see Burns get an early lead, where Crolla will come on strong after round 8, but it will be too much for Crolla to win back. The fight being at lightweight will suit Burns, as I believe that is his best weight. Should Burns get the decision, I think he could be in line to get a shot at Linares, and I would not rule him out winning that one either.

Ricky Burns is a credit to the sport, and an absolute gentleman inside and out the ring. Although I have not met him myself, I have heard nothing but nice things from friends who have met him. I think it is about time he starts to get much more appreciation for what he has achieved so far. Fighting away from home at 34 years of age, and being the underdog will suit Burns. He has always been under rated, and will thrive on it. I hope Scotland can get right behind this genuine class act and support him to once again proving the doubters wrong, and hopefully win yet another world title in what has already been a wonderful career.