Manny Pacquiao confirms he is in negotiations to fight Amir Khan
Filipino confirms reports from earlier this week that showdown with former sparring partner was a likelihood
Philippine boxing hero Manny Pacquiao on Thursday said he was “in negotiations” to face British fighter Amir Khan, after weeks of conflicting reports over his next bout.
“My team and I are in negotiations with Amir Khan for our next fight. Further announcements coming soon,” Pacquiao, 38, said on his official Twitter feed.
Last month, Pacquiao’s American promoter Bob Arum was widely quoted as saying the Filipino would next face Australia’s Jeff Horn in April, although Pacquiao’s aides insisted nothing had been confirmed.
A business adviser of the fighter nicknamed “Pacman” said this week that his next opponent would “most likely” be Khan in Dubai, but other aides declined to comment.
Pacquiao, the WBO welterweight champion, tweeted on February 11: “See you in UAE for my next fight. #TeamPacquiao”.
The poll has since been taken down.
Pacquiao initially said he was retiring to focus on his new role as Philippine senator, after winning elections last year on the back of his sporting fame.