Ricky Burns claimed the vacant Commonwealth super-featherweight title with a comfortable points win over Osumanu Akaba.
Scot targetting world title shot against Cook in the future
Ricky Burns claimed the vacant Commonwealth super-featherweight title with a unanimous points win over Osumanu Akaba.
The Scot overcame a slow start to triumph comfortably in the eyes of the three judges, who scored it 116-113, 117-112 and 116-112.
The margin of victory did not tell the full story of the fight, though, with 'The Golden Boy' from Ghana proving a tricky customer.
Stepping up from his normal weight, Akaba - who defeated Tshifhiwa Munyai last time out - came out all guns blazing in the opening rounds.
Wild swings
He marched forward from the very first second throwing plenty of shots, albeit many of his wild swings actually failing to land.
Burns seemed a little taken aback by his opponent but gradually got on top before dominating the closing rounds.
The 25-year-old looked strong right through to the final bell to claim his first title as a professional, something he had dreamed about for a long time.
"I'm over the moon, I cannot believe it," a delighted Burns told
Sky Sports afterwards. "Since I was a wee guy I have dreamed of winning titles like this. It's a step in the right direction for me.
Tough fight
"What a tough fight it was. I could not get going, I've had a few months out of the ring so perhaps I needed a warm-up fight before it. At least I came out on top."
Burns' next test could come against reigning world champion Nicky Cook, who was at ringside to watch the bout at the York Hall in Bethnal Green.
"If that fight comes up - no problem," the new commonwealth champion said when asked about a showdown with Cook.
"After watching his fight with Alex Arthur I don't see nothing there that I can't deal with. If I've got enough time for a fight I'll be ready for anybody."
