2010 started for Ricky Burns in May against an awkward customer, the experienced Youssef Al Hamidi. Many underestimate Al Hamidi and a good example of that is Al Hamidi (4-8-1) v John Murray (25-0). Al Hamidi proved a stern test for Murray that night who went on to win a points decision but you cant help but think Al Hamidi was robbed and the decision should have gone the other way. This was Ricky’s second fight against Al Hamidi, previously Ricky won a points decision back in 2007. Ricky came into this fight with 27 wins and 2 defeats while Al Hamidi was coming into the fight with 6 wins 26 loses and 2 draws. The fight took place at West Ham’s stadium, Upton Park, as a build up to the main event Michael Katsidis v Kevin Mitchell. Ricky went on and won convincingly this time according to referee Marcus McDonnell who scored the bout 80-73.
Four months had passed and Ricky was in line for a shot at the WBO super featherweight title against Roman Martinez who was undefeated boasting a record of 24 wins and 1 draw. Journalist’s all over the world were writing off Ricky’s chances of causing a upset and he was a massive underdog with the Bookmakers. The fight was to take place in Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall, 3000 fans packed in to watch this fight and what a atmosphere it was. When Ricky came out to do his ring walk the place exploded and what a daunting place to be in for Roman Martinez. In round one Ricky was knocked down, the crowd went silent to see if Ricky would get back up and when he did the cheered him all the way to the final bell pushing there man on at every step. Ricky went on to win a hard though battle over 12 rounds, the judges scored the fight 115-112, 115-112, 115-113. The fight is surely a candidate for fight of the year.
Ricky finished off 2010 with his first title defense, fighting a unknown fighter called Andreas Evensen. Ricky didn’t look his best that night but went onto to win a points decision 119-108, 118-109, 119-108.
2011 is going to be a interesting year as Ricky Starts it as WBO super featherweight Champion.
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