Katsidis says Burns is his toughest test

Michael Katsidis has labelled Ricky Burns the most dangerous British opponent he could face as he looks for his third success in London.

The 31-year-old Australian fights Burns on 5 November for the WBO interim lightweight title as the Scot moves up a weight following three successful defences of his world super-featherweight title, which he won in spectacular fashion from Roman Martinez last year.

Katsidis, who beat Graham Earl in five rounds at Wembley and stopped Kevin Mitchell in the third round at Upton Park, said of Coatbridge fighter Burns: “He is very dangerous, the most dangerous opponent I could have faced.

“Burns has better boxing ability than both Kevin Mitchell and Graham Earl. Burns is powerful and is a very consistent fighter. He has shown it in the past.

“I don’t think Burns will be at a disadvantage moving up a weight. It’s a move he should have made a long time ago. Some underestimate his power but not me. I do not feel I am the favourite for this fight or that I have the edge. I feel we are on par.

“I may be experienced at the top level but Burns has an awful a lot of experience, too. He showed that last year when he won his title.”