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Khan lays down challenge to rivals

09/04/2007

Amir Khan has challenged his British rivals to put-up or shut-up after demolishing Steffy Bull in his latest fight in less than three rounds.

Khan says there are a host of champions lining up to fight him because they want a big pay-day rather than being concerned about holding on to their titles.

"There are a few fighters I'd love to fight just to shut their mouths. They're scared," the 20-year-old said.

One potential candidate for Khan's next fight is current British lightweight champion Jonathan Thaxton who won the Lonsdale belt earlier this year.

Khan said: "Thaxton is made for my style, he's a come-forward fighter and I've got the hand speed to pick him off and stay away from his bombs."

The former Olympic silver medallist said he had seen Thaxton fight Ricky Hatton earlier in his career and that he was confident of handing the Norwich fighter a boxing lesson should they meet.

Khan is equally certain of his chances against another potential opponent, John Murray, the WBC youth champion.

He said: "I've sparred with Murray and played around with him and he's not even on my level.

"But I think everyone knows who's better. They're scared and they want a big pay-day. But I'm not scared, I'll fight anyone."

Despite the short length of his fight with Bull, the 12th of his professional career, Khan said that he learnt how to beat an opponent who was trying to avoid him rather than knock him out.

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