Manny Pacquiao defeated Keith Thurman via split decision to capture the WBA super world welterweight title in July, in Las Vegas. The 40-year old claimed he became the oldest champion in history.
However, Amir Khan said Pacquiao isn’t the most improved fighter over the last one year, he would give Pacquiao more problems if he had the fight.
“I’ve worked with him for years and years – I know him quite well. I think honestly I’d give him a lot of problems. He fought Thurman who’s got slow feet and slow hands.” Khan said.
“With me he’ll have a lot of problems because I move my hands fast, have better footwork and more head movement. I wouldn’t just stand there and get hit. You have to still give him credit, but he’s not the same Pacquiao he was a couple of years ago.” he added.
The former unified light-welterweight champion is super confident that he will fight Pacquiao next September. Khan believes “Pac Man” will have no such problem negotiating a fight with him.
“I was just told what to say in the press conference by my advisors. I think it was all very badly handled. I just think the only way a fight like that will happen is if me and Pacquiao sit together and talk.” Khan said.
“We’ll see if it happens next year. We both know it’s a big fight which can make a lot of money. Look, it’s the final chapter now. A couple of more fights – honestly. I’ve done well in the sport financially, winning titles and making a name for myself.
“It’s all about now just enjoying the last bit – the last few fights – and just calling it a day really. Health is everything and family. Everything you do is for your family. I want to be in one piece for when I’m spending time with them.
“You’re always just one punch away from getting hurt. I never want that one punch to land on me, you know? Before it’s too late so let’s see how it goes.” Khan added.
Khan captured WBA light-welterweight title against Ukrainian Andreas Kotelnik at MEN Arena. The Bolton boy won a landslide unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards 120-108, 118-111, 118-111.