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Amir Khan makes switch to Golden Boy promotions

Amir Khan celebrates his WBA light-welterweight triumph © Getty Images

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Amir Khan declared he will 'fight anyone, anywhere' after his move to Golden Boy Promotions amplified chances of a potential bout with compatriot Ricky Hatton.

Khan ended a five-year relationship with promoter Frank Warren on Sunday, preferring to entrust his future to Oscar De La Hoya's "Golden Boy" brand. The Bolton-born fighter is desperate to make his name in the US, having already formed a seemingly ruthless partnership with revered American coach Freddie Roach.

The switch away from Warren was believed to be crucial to the possibility of a box-office fight with Hatton, who recently confirmed his intention to return to the ring in 2010. Hatton had previously cited the British promoter as the major obstacle to a showdown with Khan, stating: "I don't have to fight Amir Khan. Amir Khan is a friend of mine. He's promoted by Frank Warren so with the differences between me and Frank Warren over the years I don't believe that to be possible."

That barrier no longer exists after Khan's switch to Golden Boy, upon which the WBA light-welterweight champion stated: "I am really happy Khan Promotions is partnering with Golden Boy as I know that together they will be the right team to help me continue my career as an elite fighter and to expand my fan base to the United States and around the world.

"I'm ready to fight anyone, anywhere, anytime and know that Golden Boy will help me accomplish these goals."

No direct mention was made of Hatton during Sunday's press conference, but De La Hoya did predict that Khan would become the figurehead of boxing.

"Amir Khan is one of the most talented fighters in the world at any weight," De La Hoya said of the 23-year-old fighter. "That talent, combined with his charismatic and outgoing personality, makes him a promoter's dream and I feel will one day lead him to being the face of boxing."

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