Amir Khan boldly claims he had what it took to defeat two of boxing's greatest legends, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. But here's where it gets controversial: despite his confidence, those blockbuster fights never materialized, sparking questions about what might have been.
During the WBC convention gala dinner in Bangkok, the 38-year-old British fighter reflected on his career, making it clear that his time in the ring has ended. Though he shares the same age as undefeated super middleweight champion Terence Crawford, Khan insists he won’t be lacing up gloves again. "My journey in boxing is over," he stated, "and it’s time to let the younger fighters rise and shine."
Khan's career was notable and eventful. With a record of 34 wins and 6 losses, including 21 knockouts, he once held the 140-pound title and challenged for the welterweight crown. He also went head-to-head with Canelo Alvarez for the middleweight championship. One of his most memorable moments was the 2010 BWAA Fight of the Year, where he triumphed over the tough Argentinian Marcos Maidana by unanimous decision, thrilling fans in Las Vegas.
"I have no regrets about what I've contributed to boxing," Khan said passionately. He credits his every decision and move in the sport to fate or divine plan, expressing pride in how he conducted his career.
When asked whether, in his prime, he could have bested Hall of Famers Mayweather and Pacquiao—both of whom avoided fighting him—Khan was emphatic: "Absolutely, 100%. They simply didn’t want to fight me. That’s why those matches never happened."
Khan’s closeness to Pacquiao, having trained alongside him at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Club, likely added an intriguing tension that may have influenced fight negotiations. Meanwhile, Mayweather opted to face other top opponents like Juan Manuel Marquez, Canelo Alvarez, and Maidana during Khan's prime years.
That legendary fight with Maidana, exactly 15 years ago, showcased Khan’s grit and heart. He knocked Maidana down in the opening round and endured relentless punishment throughout. It was a defining victory, silencing critics who doubted his resilience. Khan believes no other fighter could have triumphed over him that night.
"It’s a shame the Mayweather and Pacquiao bouts didn’t happen," he lamented. "But on that Maidana night, I was at my absolute best and ready to take on anyone."
Khan also recalled his 2016 title fight against Canelo Alvarez at T-Mobile Arena, where he was competitive early on before a sixth-round knockout. Comparing those matches, he noted that fighting Mayweather and Pacquiao would have been more fitting weight-wise and in prestige, saying, "Those are the fights fighters dream of because they push you to your limits."
In 2019, Khan lost to Terence Crawford by sixth-round stoppage. He praised Crawford’s remarkable achievement in moving up two weight classes to claim a fifth division championship, calling the matchup and potential rematch "fantastic fights that showed the best of the sport."
Khan retired after a 2022 TKO loss to fellow Brit Kell Brook, affirming he has no plans to return to the ring, unlike Pacquiao, who is aiming for another bout at 47, and Mayweather, who has hinted at a comeback next year.
In a symbolic passing of the torch, Khan was warmly embraced by Souleymane Cissokho, France’s WBC #2 contender and former sparring partner, whom Khan predicts will soon become a world champion. "He’s almost there," Khan said proudly.
Throughout his career, Khan emphasized respect and professionalism, building positive relationships with promoters and fighters alike. Now, enjoying retirement, he reflects on his legacy with satisfaction and encourages the new generation to learn from his journey.
But here’s the question boxing fans might debate endlessly: Was Amir Khan truly denied his shot at the biggest victories by circumstance and politics, or did those legends fear what he could bring to the ring? Share your thoughts below—do you believe Khan could have changed boxing history, or was his time simply outmatched by the greats' eras?
