Amir Khan Next Fight Confirmed! Opponent Saul Canelo Calls Fighter Decorated Amateur
After almost a year courting boxers for Amir Khan's next fight, Oscar De La Hoya finally found an opponent for the British fighter.
Golden Boy Promotions announced that Khan will face Saul "Canelo" Alvarez who defeated veteran Miguel Cotto three months ago.
Shortly after the announcement, Alvarez fired the first salvo against Khan.
"As the middleweight champion of the world, I will take on the best fighters in the sport and on Cinco De Mayo weekend, I look forward to making the first defense of my titles," said Alvarez, per Boxing News 24.
"Amir was a decorated amateur, a two-time world champion and is in the prime of his career. Fans are in for a great fight on May 7."
Amir Khan previously demanded a bigger name as opponent for his next fight, similar to Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao's stature. Accordingly, Canelo fits the bill.
"I know Canelo fights the best and wouldn't pass up the opportunity to face me like others have," said Amir Khan.
"My goal is to always fight the biggest names and the best fighters that is why I'm excited for this fight. Also, I would like to thank my team and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity."
"I know I have the speed and ability to beat him and will give my fans what they deserve on May 7," he said.
De La Hoya, on the other hand, expressed his confidence that Canelo will deliver an exciting fight. He even called him the biggest star of the sport at the moment.
"We are committed to putting on the biggest and best fights in boxing," the retired boxer said.
"Canelo is the biggest star in the sport and as he demonstrated against James Kirkland and Miguel Cotto last year, he is only getting better. Those who predicted that he would take an easy fight for his first defense have been proven wrong once again."
He added, "As for Amir, he has won his last five fights including an incredible performance against Devon Alexander, and now that he is back where he belongs at Golden Boy Promotions, his future is very bright, once again."
Amir Khan's next fight will come a year after his victory against Chris Algieri.
