ST JOSEPH’S ace Lee Selby will defend his IBF world featherweight title on a big night of boxing at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, December 9.

Selby, 30, has so far made three successful defences of the belt he took from Evgeny Gradovich in May 2015, the most recent coming against Jonathan Barros in July.

He says he is ready to give mandatory challenger Josh Warrington an “educated boxing lesson” once he comes through his latest defence.

The Barry fighter and Warrington have been embroiled in a long-running battle of words, with Selby accusing the Leeds boxer of “bottling” an opportunity to face him.

“I can't wait to return to the ring on a huge night of boxing," said Selby. "There’s some terrific fighters featuring on the bill but I'll be stealing the show and ending 2017 in style.

“I will definitely be fighting my mandatory challenger Josh Warrington after I come through this fight.

“To me, he (Warrington) is just another opponent, but I think he's got emotionally attached to me.

“I will give him an educated lesson and then move on.”

Selby's December 9 opponent has yet to be named.

IBF super-middleweight world champion James DeGale will also defend his title at the Copper Box Arena.

Promoter Frank Warren said: “I am delighted James and Lee are showcasing their talents on our last big show in London this year.

“I expect it to be a special night for James, defending his world title in his home city for the first time.

“Selby is a class operator and, should he come through this fight, we will be looking to make the long-awaited fight with Josh in 2018.

“Rising stars Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois will also feature on this unmissable card and I know fans will be in for a real treat.”

DeGale added: "I have made my name as a road warrior but now it is time to remind everyone at home who the best super-middleweight in the world is."