I’ve said many times that boxing today is about great bouts more than titles. I know who I'd rather see the Bolton man meet next — and it’s not Floyd
I feel sorry for Amir Khan that he didn’t get the Mayweather fight, but Manny Pacquiao is not bad compensation.
The encouraging noises coming out of the Pacman camp via his manager Bob Arum suggest Khan might yet get the super-fight he deserves.
They have sparred many times, know each other well.
The soundings on the bush telegraph tell of Khan more than holding his own at those Wild Card Gym sessions.
I’ve said many times that boxing today is about great fights more than titles.If the two elements co-incide, fine.If not, let’s get the show on anyway.
The record rate at which the tickets have been flying out at Madison Square Garden for the Gennady Golovkin vs David Lemieux middleweight unification fight in October prove the enduring appeal of this great sport.
Khan vs Pacquiao would grace any venue, andBrit Khan has earned his chance. He is better than waiting around for Mayweather.
It is a testament to Khan's talent thatMayweather chose to fight Andre Berto, absurd as that is — the Bolton man was always too great a risk, because he is a world class fighter in his prime.
It is time for Khan to move on.
What better way than taking on Pacquiao, which is a far better fight for the neutral and dangerous for Khan in a different way?
Khan has none of Mayweather’s instinct for self-preservation. He is full of machismo and likes to go after opponents come what may. Against Pacquiao, that is inviting trouble.
Mayweather did not allow Pacquiao the luxury of proximity when they met in May. He was always out of range. Khan does not fight that way. He can’t help himself despite the risks involved in trading punches.
That Pacquiao is one of the most lethal punchers we have seen in the lighter weights is all the more reason to go after him.
There are a few hurdles to leap, given Khan and Pacquiao are on different sides of the broadcast divide. But if the economics stack up we have seen how Arum and Al Haymon, who advises Khan, are prepared to work together in the wider interest.
Khan has always walked the line between greatness and vulnerability. It is part of his appeal. He has been in some brilliant fights already and this would be a fitting addition to his personal canon.
I know who I would rather see Khan fight — and it’s not Floyd Mayweather.
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