Ricky Burns beats Michael Katsidis on points

Ricky Burns successfully moved up to lightweight and beat Michael Katsidis by unanimous decision on Saturday night at Wembley Arena.

Using his superior reach and effective jab, Burns out-worked and out-manoeuvred Katsidis for the first four rounds, surprising many at ringside who had predicted the Australian to start the quicker.

Katsidis was most effective when he pinned his opponent against the ropes, landing well to the body and head.

Burns began to tire after the fourth as Katsidis was able to break through the Scot’s jab and work away on the inside.

In the second half of the bout, the quality of the boxing deteriorated as both tired and were forced to grapple and fight on the inside.

Burns and Katsidis continued to have success adopting their favoured tactics, Burns boxing from distance and Katsidis brawling on the inside, but Burns had the superior work-rate and went into the final round ahead on points.

The final round saw Katsidis look for the knockout, but Burns was wise to his tactics, kept dancing and covered up well on the ropes.

At the end of the fight the judges scored it 117-112, 117-111 and 117-111, giving Burns a wide unanimous decision.

The victory improved Burns’ record to 33 wins, nine by the way of knockout, and two losses, while Katsidis succumbed to his fifth loss in 33 fights.

After the fight Burns said: “I cannot believe it – everybody had Michael walking all over me. I always said when I’m up against it I’m at my best.

“I treat boxing as my job. I would box anyone at all. I’m not afraid of getting beaten.

“My jab way the key in that fight, I did have to stand my ground. Michael can punch, he can bang. I love boxing.”