Big-hit Burns in Hearn switch

Monday 11 March 2013

Big-hit Burns in Hearn switch

Bert Mitchell

Sports Writer

RICKY BURNS is today ready to sign a deal with London boxing promoter Eddie Hearn.

Ricky Burns is down south for contract talks

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By BERT MITCHELL

The WBO lightweight champion has not fought since he beat Kevin Mitchell inside four rounds in September.

After seeing his next proposed defence of the 135lbs title against Liam Walsh fall by the wayside and then a battle with Mexican Jose Ocampo also scrapped, Burns was due to face IBF ruler Miguel Vasquez in a two belt unification fight, at Wembley, on 16 March.

But when that fight was postponed until April 20, Vasquez's camp saying he had a stomach bug, the Scot's manager Morrison decided to break his man's contract with Frank Warren.

Burns has been courted by Hearn, who also promotes WBC super-middleweight champion Carl Froch.

It is understood the Scot will be on London today, accompanied by trainer Billy Nelson, to confirm his move to Hearn's Matchroom boxing stable.

However, Warren is adamant Burns is still under contract to him and will be meeting Vazquez on April 20 at Wembley.

He said: "I have a contract with Vazquez. In the meantime I have a contract with Ricky. I like Ricky and don't want to fall out with him.

"Vazquez is contracted to box Ricky Burns on April 20. He has confirmed he will fight on that date."

lBernard Hopkins became the oldest man to win a world title when he beat Tavoris Cloud on points on claim the IBF light-heavyweight crown.

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