Manny Pacquiao ‘wants’ Amir Khan fight as Brit reveals ‘interest’ in ‘massive’ event

Former world champion Khan (36) has not fought since he lost in decisive fashion against Kell Brook in February 2022 at the Manchester Arena as the two British rivals settled their heated rivalry. 

Pacquiao (44) meanwhile is considered to be one of the best boxers ever having won world titles in eight weight divisions. 

The boxing legend has been out of action since his loss to Yordenis Ugas via unanimous decision in August 2021 as they battled for the WBA world super welterweight title.

Pacquiao has been linked with a return in recent months with a bout against Conor Benn and an exhibition with Floyd Mayweather Jr discussed. 

Khan has now revealed that there “is interest” in a bout with Pacquiao, who would be a “perfect” opponent for him at this stage. 

“Look, it’s a tough one because you get different things told to you,” Khan said while discussing the potential fight in an interview with IFLTV. 

“There is interest, Manny’s team want it, the Saudis want to fight in Abu Dhabi. It would be massive. A fight with Manny would definitely motivate [me]. I think he would be perfect.  

“We sparred a lot, we know a lot about each other. My last fight against Kell wasn’t the best fight to finish. I feel I’m a lot better than that.”

Khan announced his retirement in May 2022 and it was announced in April 2023 that he had been given a two-year ban as he tested positive for banned substance ostarine.

This ban was backdated to April 2022 so he is not free to return until the start of 2024 after it was agreed during his hearing that his violation was not intentional.