• Thursday, March 28, 2024

Sports

Amir Khan to face India’s Neeraj Goyat in Saudi Arabia

Amir Khan (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

By: Keerthi Mohan

BOXER Amir Khan is set to take on India’s Neeraj Goyat in an exhibition bout in Saudi Arabia, earning him a reported £7 million.

The bout against the former MMA fighter is set to take place at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 12.

“This is an exciting challenge I have ahead of me,” said Khan.

“It will be the first time a British Pakistani will fight an Indian boxer, which eventually will bring the two nations together,” added Khan, who is a two-time world champion and an Olympic silver medalist.

“I’m a firm believer in sport being a great healer. I would like to thank the Saudi government and General Sports Authority for giving me this opportunity.”

Reports indicate that a number of fighters were considered before Goyat was selected to face Khan.

Goyat, the first Indian boxer to break into the WBC rankings, has a record of 11 wins including two knockouts, three losses and two draws till date.

“This opportunity is as big as it gets for me,” said Goyat. “I will be carrying the hopes of 1.2bn people on my shoulders who will expect me to bring the title by causing an upset.”

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