• Amir Khan v Lamont Peterson II

Khan finally lands Peterson rematch

ESPN staff
February 9, 2012

Amir Khan's wish for a rematch against Lamont Peterson has finally been granted after the American signed to fight the Brit on May 19 in Las Vegas.

Khan stated earlier on Friday that a deal with the man who beat him in December was "99 per cent there", but Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer said the fight has now been finalised and has given Khan the green light to start planning for his revenge mission at Mandalay Bay Hotel.

"We have a deal, we are all set," Schaefer told Sky Sports News. "This is going to be a big fight, and I mean a very, very big fight. The first fight was a terrific, all-action fight. There was a lot of controversy and questions surrounding this fight.

"This one will hopefully clear up all these question marks. It's is going to be a big, big night for boxing. I'm happy that Lamont Peterson realised this is the fight the world of boxing wants.

"Irrespective of weight class, these two guys fighting each other again is going to be one of the biggest fights in any weight class which can be made."

Khan lost his WBA and IBF light-welterweight titles in controversial circumstances in Washington, being docked two points for pushing by referee Joseph Cooper and falling to a split decision points defeat.

The Brit has canvassed for a rematch ever since, pointing to the involvement of mystery man Mustafa Ameen, who was seen handling the judges' scorecards ringside during the bout, as a reason for the confusion surrounding the validity of the scoring of the contest.

Khan appealed the result, leading to the WBA ordering a rematch. The saga rumbled on when Peterson lodged a "comprehensive written appeal" against the WBA's decision, but it appears Khan's willingness to offer his rival big money - "50 per cent of the world revenue" - has forced Peterson into a U-turn.

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