Floyd Mayweather Hints at Amir Khan Fight Following Win Over Manny Pacquiao
After defeating Manny Pacquiao in their big Las Vegas showdown, Floyd Mayweather has hinted that British fighter Amir Khan could be his next—and likely, last—opponent.
According to Jeff Powell of the Daily Mail, when asked who could be left for him to fight, the 38-year-old simply said "Khan," the third time Money has teased Khan as a possible opponent.
Khan added fuel to the fire by claiming Mayweather's manager approached him after the fight.
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In extended quotes given to BBC Radio (h/t Sky Sports) he said: "I think the fight is there. I spoke to Len Ellerbe, his manager, I saw him in the media room and he came over to say 'hi... he's ready when you are.'"
According to BBC Sport, Khan added: "I think Mayweather's team want the fight—but I've spoken to Manny's team and they've said the same thing, that they want a fight. I really believe I have Mayweather's number and I'm ready for whatever he wants."
However, the American's next fight is due to take place in September, as noted by Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix:
This would prove highly problematic for a showdown with the Brit, due to Khan's observance of Ramadan. Fasting during the month would prevent Khan from being able to fully prepare for the bout.
Khan admitted as much himself: "I can't do September because of Ramadan. It just depends on my schedule this year but if we can do this year or early next year I will definitely jump to it."
Khan is a strong fighter, with a 30-3 record and 19 KOs to his name, and fans would likely welcome a clash between Mayweather and the 28-year-old due to Khan's exceptional speed.
BBC Sport editor Dan Roan was less convinced that Mayweather is calling Khan out, however:
Boxing promoter Frank Warren is doubtful that Money will want to risk taking on Khan, as he bids to equal Rocky Marciano's 49-0 unbeaten record with his next and potentially final bout.
Speaking on BBC 5 Live Breakfast, he said "I don't think he'll fight Amir," adding that Khan has "a lot of speed" while Mayweather is "slowing down," though he admits the British fighter should grab any opportunity to face Mayweather "with both hands."
Fellow promoter Eddie Hearn also believes Mayweather will not face Khan—or compatriot Kell Brook, for that matter—but not for the same reason.
Rather, he believes Money will not face the Brits as they are not big enough names.
Speaking to talkSPORT's Extra Time, he said: "Floyd does not want to fight young lions, that includes Brook and Amir Khan. He's not going to face those sort of people at this stage of his career."
Corey Erdman believes Mayweather will choose "the path of least resistance" when choosing his next opponent:
Whether Mayweather is committed to fighting Khan remains to be seen, and Khan's unavailability in September is certainly a spanner in the works.
Either way, the chance to fight Mayweather is an incredible opportunity for the Bolton-born pugilist. If they can make it happen, it will be the biggest fight of his career.
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