British welterweight star Amir Khan is not done with boxing after losing for the first time at 147 pounds.
Khan was stopped by Terence Crawford in six rounds on the back of a one-sided fight in New York City.
Dropped in the first, Khan only had fleeting moments in the contest as Crawford was just too strong and skilled.
A low blow ended proceedings as Khan’s trainer Virgil Hunter informed the ringside physician to pull his man out.
Confusion reigned in the aftermath as Khan was accused of walking away from the bout. The 32 year-old has since denied any notion of a ‘no mas’ situation.
“I have never quit a fight in my life,” stated Khan. “My understanding was that Virgil asked me if the low blow still hurt and I said ‘yes’. My intention was to wait it out and continue like always.
“(I was) Peeing blood. The shot was low. The fight was just getting interesting. Well done team Terrance.
“I never quit. I rather get knocked out cold than quit. Good night. Thank you, New York,” he added.
On his next move, Khan assured his fans it wasn’t the last we will see of him in a boxing ring.
“Thank you for all the support and well wishes. I’ll be back.
“The last 12 months have been brilliant. After a long layoff with hand injuries, I fought three times. Lo Grego, Vargas and Crawford. Thank you for all the support and motivation – everyone.
“Will have a nice break and with my family and friends. I will announce something soon.”
After some exchanges over the ending at the post-fight press conference, Crawford sent his best wishes to Khan via social media.
“Wanted to thank Amir Khan and team for taking the fight. Not the ending we both wanted but the fight game is unpredictable. Respect,” said the American.
It’s uncertain where Khan can go with his career. UK rival Kell Brook is a possibility but may himself target Crawford for later in the year.
HEARN
Khan’s relationship with Eddie Hearn is also up in the air as the Matchroom completely ignored the Crawford fight on his timeline during the night.
Hearn failed to post a single thing about Khan, either a good luck message or whatever, after witnessing Dave Allen’s win over Lucas Browne in London.
Matchroom was promoting the fight alongside Top Rank, which was the last of a three-fight deal between Hearn and Khan.
It seems a clash between Khan and Brook could now be off the menu for good despite the latter turning at Madison Square Garden to witness the defeat.
UK interest has wained year upon year in Khan v Brook and the British contingent may finally have had enough of the talk.
