Amir Khan wants to make a comeback to boxing, and he's got his sights set on Manny Pacquiao. The 38-year-old former champion says he'll step back into the ring, but only if it's against a legend like Pacquiao or Floyd Mayweather.
Khan hasn't fought since February 2022 when Kell Brook stopped him. That loss capped off a career that saw him rack up 34 wins in 40 fights, with 21 of those coming by knockout. He's faced some of the best in the business, beating guys like Marco Antonio Barrera and Marco Maidana, but also falling short against Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez and Terence Crawford.
Now, Khan's getting that itch to fight again. He told reporters:
"The best time for it [a comeback] is now, your hands do get itchy. You want to get back in the ring again, but there's nothing that really excites me. It's Manny Pacquiao or Floyd Mayweather."
Khan's not in it for the money. He's comfortable financially. What he misses are those packed arenas and the chance to share the ring with a true legend of the sport. And he's put a deadline on it – he wants to make it happen before he turns 40.
Pacquiao might just be the perfect opponent. The 46-year-old Filipino icon is making his own comeback this weekend in Las Vegas, taking on WBC welterweight champ Mario Barrios. It's Pacquiao's first fight in three years, and he's hinted at more to come if things go well.
Khan thinks a fight between him and Pacquiao would be huge. He said:
"Pacquiao vs. Khan would do massive numbers, that would be an exciting fight. He knows what makes him money, and what makes him money is a fight with me, or Mayweather, the big super fights."
Khan's career has been a rollercoaster ride of thrilling highs and dramatic lows. Now, he's hoping for one last big moment in the spotlight. Will Pacquiao take the bait? We'll have to wait and see.
