Adam Booth assesses 6 key rivals, all potential opponents for Ryan Burnett next fight
Belfastman Ryan Burnett has to be on the shortlist, alongside Britain's only other unified champion, Anthony Joshua, and Josh Taylor in my view, for British Fighter of 2017. First Burnett unseated tricky IBF bantam boss Lee Haskins in June then unified four months later with another clear points victory, this time over WBA Super king, Zhanat Zhakiyanov.
Next year could be even sweeter for Burnett, who theoretically has his best form still in front of him. We spoke to his highly respected trainer, Adam Booth, to get his take on the Ulster marvel, the other top bantamweights in the world, and on Ryan's next move.
Ryan Burnett (IBF/WBA Super champion)
Tenacious, developing champ. Proving himself in 50-50 world title fights.
Luis Nery (WBC champion)
Excellent southpaw who throws a mean left hand.
Zolani Tete (WBO champion)
Excellent fighter who still needs a significant title win at bantam.
Shinsuke Yamanaka
Tall, experienced southpaw. Decent power. Might be on the slight decline.
Emmanuel Rodriguez
Very accomplished fighter who is a real threat to any champ.
Liborio Solis
A real strong handful!
Ryan Burnett next fight
ALL are possibilities. Ryan is a two-belt champ who wants to be the best! He’s only 18 fights and 25 years old, so the decision on order of fights is even more important to get right. Personal pride, competitive spirit, money, TV, governing body obligations are ALL the factors to weigh up, every time!