Manny Pacquiao is expected to return by early 2016 for his return and possibly last fight of his colourful boxing career though his opponent has yet to be named.
Amir Khan was the only name left on rumoured candidates for Pacquiao’s alleged last dance before he ventures out in the world of politics but it looks like he will be counted out as well.
Khan reveals in a report from the National that he has walked away from possible fight talks believing that Pacquiao was leaning more on a rematch with undefeated American boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The decision comes barely 24 hours after Pacquiao had revealed that his shoulder was 80 to 90 percent ready.
Khan aired his disappointment saying that while both camps met in Doha last week, he believes that a contract should have been signed by now. Khan believes that Pacquiao and his camp are stalling, apparently linking it to rumors concerning a possible rematch between the Filipino boxer and the 49-American boxer.
“I’m really disappointed in Manny and his team,” Khan told The National. “They aren’t playing ball. All that was left to do is to sign the contract. But they are stalling.
“I have pulled out of the negotiations. I am no longer fighting Manny Pacquiao.”
An earlier report by AFP claims that Pacquiao was in talks with Khan and Mayweather which eventually came as a surprise. Top Rank promoter Bob Arum admitted his shock with the statements of Pacquiao but later pointed out that the report may have been a result of a language barrier.
Regardless, it seems that Khan’s sudden withdrawal will spur up rumors about a Mayweather vs. Pacquiao sequel despite some feeling that another meeting between two of the best pound-for-pound boxers is not a good idea.
Some are apparently reeling from the disappointing May 2 tiff between the two and many feel that a second meeting will be no different.
For Khan, it becomes the second time he has been shunned after being passed over by Floyd Mayweather Jr. last September 12. Mayweather opted to fight a less-heralded Andre Berto which he expectedly won via unanimous decision.
Khan believes that Pacquiao was being swayed by his camp to shun the Briton as well and face someone more competitive which apparently points to Mayweather.
With Pacquiao out of his fight plans, Khan is looking at several fighters to face instead. The list includes Danny Garcia, Timothy Bradley Jr., Lamont Peterson and even Kell Brook.
With regard the Pacquiao-Mayweather II rumors, there is no word yet on Floyd Jr., who as everyone knows allegedly retired after the September 12 fight.
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