Barry McGuigan is backing Josh Taylor to overcome all opposition to lift Muhammad Ali Trophy as his protégé prepares for his Quarter-Final clash with undefeated American Ryan Martin on November 3 at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow.

McGuigan, the former WBA Featherweight Champion, has heaped praise on the World Boxing Super Series concept, and while recognising the depth of talent in the tournament’s Super Lightweight bracket, he believes Taylor is the best 140lb.

“The World Boxing Super Series a great concept because it circumvents all the politics of the sport because everybody wants to fight for the Ali Trophy,” said the International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee. “It’s a great opportunity. A unique concept and we were thrilled to have the chance to put Josh into it.

“It’s a tough tournament but that’s what you expect. They’re all very good kids. Every one of them. Ryan Martin is a very good kid. Baranchky is exceptional. Regis Prograis is considered one of the favourites, and Terry Flanagan is no slouch. It’s a great tournament, but I think I have the best 140lber.

“We’re not taking Ryan Martin for granted. He’s a very tough fight, a very good kid but I think Taylor beats him on any given day. He’s traveled the world as an amateur. He’s boxed on foreign soil. He’s boxed everywhere. It doesn’t worry him. It doesn’t faze him. He’s got the most adaptable style. He’s matured a lot. He’s 27 years old. He’s much more settled. I think for this camp he’s in the best condition he’s ever been. He’s ready and we still have two weeks to go.”

Fans at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow will be treated to a spectacular doubleheader featuring two Quarter-Final contests as Scottish Su-per Lightweight star Josh Taylor takes on the undefeated American Ryan Martin, and Northern Ireland’s WBA World Champion Ryan Burnett meets former four-weight World Champion Nonito Donaire in one of Season II’s Bantamweight contests.

Tickets from £35 (plus fees) are available at: thessehydro.com