Amir Khan heads to New York City on April 20 for what will be the beginning of a spate of high-profile fights in the ‘Big Apple’ this year.
Despite being an underdog on the boxing circuit, some are predicting an upset could be possible.
The former super-lightweight meets Terence Crawford in a make or break welterweight title contest. The Bolton man bids to win a maiden bonafide belt at 147.
On the back of a failed clash with UK rival Kell Brook, Khan heads back across the Atlantic for the first time since a crushing loss against Canelo in 2016.
A spell out of the ring doing TV work is now over. Two victories in and Khan believes he’s ready for one of the pound for pound best fighters in the world.
Top Rank boss Bob Arum sought out Khan with a money-spinning offer. After some deliberation, Khan chose Crawford over Brook.
It’s now down to Khan to further cement his legacy in the sport. The 32 year-old must use his speed and accuracy in order to overcome Crawford.
Crawford vs Khan
Explaining his decision to head-hunt Khan, Arum has a renews vigor since agreeing a huge deal with TV network ESPN.
“The idea is to make the best possible fight. We’ve been Terence’s promoter for many, many years. He’s at a stage now where, to cement his legacy, he has to fight the best,” said Arum.
“I’ve always been a big fan of Amir Khan. I remember Amir Khan when he was an amateur and what great skills he has and had.
“It will be a real test for Bud Crawford to fight Amir Khan. I really think Amir has been one of the best welterweights around. And I think it’s going to be a great, great fight on April 20.”
On what could be next if Crawford defeats Khan, Arum added: “Terence Crawford, should he win the fight April 20, he will fight the best available welterweights in the world.
“In this world, there are tremendously gifted fighters. There’s this kid in Spain that’s the biggest attraction Spanish boxing ever had called {Kerman Lejarraga}. And he’s a terrific fighter.
“There’s the Eastern Europeans. There’s a lot of good welterweights. If there are fighters fighting for another promoter, and the other promoter is digging his heels in and won’t give his fighters the opportunity to be on a big stage, it’s on them.
“I can’t be worried about it,” he said.
