Burns joins Matchroom stable

WBO lightweight champion Ricky Burns has been unveiled as the Matchroom stable's latest big-name signing.

The WBO lightweight champion has left Frank Warren's stable after becoming frustrated at a delay to his unification fight with IBF title-holder Miguel Vazquez.

An original March 16 date was put back to April 20 after Vazquez revealed he was suffering from a stomach infection and presented Warren with a doctor's certificate to confirm as much.

The promoter, who lost George Groves to Eddie Hearn's stable last week as the pair parted on mutually agreeable terms, insists Burns remains contracted to fulfil his fight duties at Wembley Arena next month.

But Matchroom say Burns' next contest - and his first under their banner - will be a title defence against an as-yet unnamed opponent in his native Scotland on May 11.

"I'm delighted to welcome Ricky Burns to the team. Ricky is an outstanding fighter and a hugely popular sporting figure in Scotland," said Hearn.

"We are looking forward to a massive show on May 11 in Scotland as we begin our journey with Ricky."

Burns, who also saw a December defence against Jose Ocampo called off, has not fought since dismantling Kevin Mitchell in September.

He said: "I'm delighted that my future has been resolved and I'm really looking forward to the next chapter of my career.

"It's been a frustrating time since the Kevin Mitchell win but now I'm just focused on May 11 and putting in a great performance.

"I would love it to be in Glasgow - my last two fights were there and the atmosphere was just electric. I've got great fans in Scotland and it means a lot to box in front of them."