Thaxton: European title shot

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British lightweight champion Jon Thaxton has earned a shot at the European title against Belarussian Yuri Romanov in April.

The fight will take place in Thaxton's home city of Norwich on April 4 against the highly-rated 25-year-old.

Romanov is currently ranked second by the WBA, so victory would propel the Norwich fighter towards a world-title shot, and Thaxton is relishing the showdown.

"I'm over the moon to have the opportunity to fight for the prestigious European title, my promoter Mick Hennessy has delivered what he promised and pulled out all the stops to secure this fight for me," said Thaxton.

"It's going to be one hell of a tough fight, but I'm ready for it.

Fantastic

"I always keep in great shape but I'm mixing up my training with some great sparring.

"(Amir) Khan has avoided fighting me and Romanov. Is it because we are both too good for him?

"It will be fantastic to fight in front of my home fans again. I always have great support in Norwich and I know they will turn out in their masses to see me add the European belt to my collection.

"To win this European title fight will open the door for me to challenge for a major world title."

The fight will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 1.