Mission Impossible for Ricky Burns?

Ricky Burns has what some in boxing would describe as "Mission Impossible" when he takes on Roman Martinez for the WBO championship in Martinez's back yard in Puerto Rico.

The Commonwealth super-featherweight champion from Coatbridge can look to Ken Buchanan for inspiration in the task in front of him, but is under no illusion as to the enormity of the task.

"While I will either have to stop him or win every round convincingly to get the verdict, I know that I have the tools in the bag to beat Martinez. I will not make the mistake Cook did of standing and trading punches with Martinez. I will beat him with speed and movement."

This will be a tale of epic proportions if Burns can emulate Buchanan, and would cement his reputation if it does come to pass. I think it is too tall an order for the very likeable Coatbridge boxer, but "hope springs eternal", especially in boxing.

No one can accuse Burns of seeking an easy ride to a title with this task.