• Amir Khan v Lamont Peterson

Peterson v Khan II ordered by the WBA

Amir Khan and Lamont Peterson look set to tussle again © Getty Images

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The WBA has ordered a rematch between Amir Khan and Lamont Peterson, meaning the pair will do battle once again unless Peterson chooses to leave the light-welterweight division.

The duo produced a controversial classic in December, with Peterson taking a split points decision after Khan was docked two points. The Brit's camp have since complained about the performance of referee Joe Cooper, as well as the presence of "mystery man" Mustafa Ameen at ringside.

Kahn's promoters Golden Boy appealed for the decision to be declared a no-contest by both the WBA and the IBF, and for a rematch to be granted. The WBA has now ordered an immediate rematch, taking Khan a step closer to a chance for redemption.

Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer said: "The WBA ordered an immediate rematch. I'm thrilled that he's getting one and hope we can start the negotiations and get the fight done. Amir and Lamont are both terrific young men and athletes who fought their hearts out in Washington in December and I'm sure this decision will get applause by fight fans around the world.

"The rematch will be one of the most anticipated fights of 2012 because both guys are exciting, young and I think it's exactly the kind of fight people want to see."

However, the decision does not force Peterson back into the ring with Khan. The style of his victory has propelled him into contention for a mega-money bout with Manny Pacquiao, so he could choose to vacate the belt and switch weights.

"One thing you cannot do is force a fighter to take a fight," Schaefer admitted. "Everybody has to do what they feel is best for them. I respect that. In this weight class a rematch is the biggest fight that can be made and it would be a shame if that doesn't happen. I say that, yes, as a promoter, but also as a fight fan. It would be a hugely anticipated fight."

The biggest obstacle to a rematch could be the opinion of Peterson's camp towards Khan, which has been soured by the appeals. Manager Barry Hunter admits it is not the most appealing prospect to do business with Khan once again.

"Unfortunately, we are in this process of dealing with these unfounded protests," Hunter said. "It would be an understatement to characterise Lamont as being disappointed in the unprofessional manner in which Khan is attempting to discredit his performance in the ring and victory.

"We were raised to conduct ourselves where champions display professionalism, both in victory and defeat. Lamont previously tasted defeat and handled it the way it should be handled - he worked harder on areas that needed improvement to maximise his performance in the ring. Now, he is world champion.

"Khan blames everyone and everything but his performance and lack of ability to make adjustments in the ring for his loss."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.