Amir Khan is using Leicester City’s shock triumph of the Premier League title as inspiration ahead of the biggest fight of his life.
The 29-year-old star is moving up two divisions to take on Canelo Alvarez this Saturday night. Khan, however, is undaunted at the prospect of facing the big Mexican puncher but instead is using the fairy-tale victory of the East Midlands side as proof that the underdog can prevail.
“I’m seen as the underdog in this fight against Canelo but I feel this is the year of the underdog. What Leicester City have achieved is absolutely amazing. You would have been called crazy if you thought that Leicester would win the title at the start of the season – it’s such an inspiring story,” said Khan.
“I’m definitely going to use that to help me because it shows that even though people say you have no chance what really matters is how you perform on the pitch, or in the boxing ring in my case.
“I’m ready to shock the world and beat Canelo even if some may have written off my chances. I know I’m ready for this fight and want to get in the ring right now,” Khan said.
Bolton native Khan touched down in Las Vegas yesterday afternoon after making the trip from his San Francisco training base alongside trainer Virgil Hunter.
Fight week begins in Las Vegas with the Grand Arrivals later today before the pair meet on May 7th at the newly built T-Mobile Arena.
The former Olympian is looking forward to opening the new 20,000 seater stadium and is thrilled to headline in the boxing capital once again.
“It’s great to fight in Las Vegas again, every fighter dreams of topping the bill here because so many legendary fights have taken place in the city,” said Khan.
“I have fought here a number of times against the likes of Zab Judah, Marcos Maidana and Devon Alexander but this is one fight I’m really excited about.
“To be the first boxing event at an arena which will become the new home of big-time boxing in Las Vegas feels special. I want to make the first fight here a remarkable one and a fight that will live long in the memory of all the fans,” he said.
