Amir Khan Says Floyd Mayweather Was 'Scared,' Ended Fight Talks at 'Last Moment'
Amir Khan has once again claimed Floyd Mayweather Jr. is afraid of stepping in the ring with him, saying the undefeated American "pulled out" of talks to set up a mouthwatering clash.
The British boxer told Indian media outlet Rediff.com (h/t Edward Chaykovsky of BoxingScene.com) the Las Vegas fighter knew he would fall to defeat against him and would have suffered a humiliating knockout: “He was scared of me, wasn’t he? We were this close to finalizing the fight. But his team backed out at the last moment. They knew that I would beat him. It was so disappointing. I could have knocked him out. It was such a shame that I didn’t get the opportunity.”
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Khan has previously said Mayweather is scared to battle him, claiming in August he had been sidestepped as the American chose to fight stable-mate Andre Berto, as quoted by BBC Sport: "I'd fight Mayweather any time. But Mayweather is scared. One thing about Amir Khan is, he's never afraid of anybody."
King Khan is eyeing an epic contest against former Wild Card training partner Manny Pacquiao for a bout in early 2016, per Boxing Scene.
Mayweather's avoidance of Khan suggests the veteran doesn't want any part of the Olympic medalist, and his speed and counterpunching could nullify Money's defensive strategy.
Khan has improved steadily since turning professional in 2008, and the glass chin present from his early days has stiffened considerably.
As a two-time former world champion, he has the credentials to take on Mayweather, but the pound-for-pound king will not want to spoil is perfect record in his 50th fight.
Pacquiao is a great opponent for Khan, but if he loses to the Filipino—who is in the twilight of his career—a superfight with Mayweather will vanish in the blink of an eye. Pac-Man will not be an easy combatant for the Brit.
Khan last lost in July 2012 to Danny Garcia, and his last five fights have been slower, methodical affairs as he tapers his aggression.
The Brit is undoubtedly ready to fight Mayweather in the near future, but he cannot show weakness or frailty against Pacquiao if they step through the ropes.
If Khan can beat the Freddie Roach-trained fighter, he can turn his attentions to IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook, and a domestic fight would be a huge showcase in the UK.
The contest would likely pack Wembley Stadium to the rafters and also allow Mayweather time to assess whether he wants Khan's scalp, breaking his retirement plans in the process.
Floyd Mayweather Sr. believes Khan would be an "easy fight" for his son, as cited by Dave Kidd in the Mirror, but the Brit's years in the ring have armed him with a wealth of craft and knowledge. He could be the man to sully Money's record.
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