Shocking News: Khan vs Barrera!

By Boxing News - 01/15/2009 - Comments

barrera334By Simon Hirst: Frank Warren seems to have pulled a rabbit out of the hat in landing Lightweight prospect Amir Khan a huge fight against former three-weight world champion Marco Antonio Barrera. This is a huge fight for a fighter coming off a shock first round knockout some six months ago.

The Mexican, who is scheduled to fight Nate Campbell later this year, has a wealth of experience after a trilogy with Erik Morales and his two fights with Manny Pacquaio. He is also famous for being the first man to beat Britain’s own Prince Naseem Hamed. Of course, he is not the same fighter as these wars have took a lot out of him, but he should still prove to be a tough opponent for Amir Khan.

It was originally thought that Khan would be fighting Alex Arthur, a former world champion at super featherweight after his second round knockout of Oisin Fagan. However, opting for a fight against a former three weight champion should give Khan plenty more experience. Barrera showed he was not ready to retire after beating little known Sammy Ventura two months ago inside four rounds.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Amir’s promoter Frank Warren said “This is a huge step up for Amir who had some serious thoughts about it. The discussions over the fight finished at 4am this morning.

“It’s a big fight for Amir who has been champing at the bit. This is the right fight for Amir at this stage of his career.

“I believe it will bring out the best in him. This puts him well and truly on the world stage.”

The fight could have come at a crucial time for Khan with Barrera aging, not being a big puncher and with trainer Freddie Roach, who also trains Pacquaio, they have the blue print on how to beat Barrera. Whether this would affect Barrera’s title challenge or simply be turned into an official elimator against Campbell remains to be seen.



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