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Khan's brother to turn pro after Team GB ignore him

Amir Khan is gearing up to fight Paulie Malignaggi in New York © Getty Images

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Amir Khan's brother, Haroon, is ready to give up on his dream of representing Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games, after being constantly overlooked for the Team GB development squad.

Haroon is out in New York preparing to watch brother Amir defend his WBA light-welterweight belt against Paulie Malignaggi, and he admits he is ready for a taste of the pro-boxing lifestyle himself. In an ideal world the 19-year-old bantamweight would target the 2012 Games, but he admits there is only interest from Pakistan.

Khan claims Britain have only come knocking when they have suffered last-minute withdrawals, whereas Pakistan have made serious financial offers for his services. Haroon has agreed to represent the nation of his grandparents at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, but he insists it would feel wrong to do so at the Olympics.

"I really wanted to box for Britain at the Olympics ever since Amir won silver in Athens," said Khan. "I looked at what he did and dreamt of going one better.

"But I've never had a look-in with the senior England squad, not even a letter. What used to happen was they would call me up a week before an international fixture and ask if I was available to box, but I knew it was only because someone had pulled out.

"When I went over to Pakistan, they were offering me a house and a car and a driver, if I wanted to stay there. But whatever happens, I couldn't see myself fighting for Pakistan at the 2012 Olympics in London. That just wouldn't feel right. If all goes well, I will turn pro after the Commonwealths."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.