Earlier today at the final press conference for this weekend?s Fight of the Year: The Rematch event, WBA Jr. Welterweight champion Amir Khan was spotted. The 23-year old is in town for reasons both personal and professional, as he will be closely watching the main event between WBA and WBO Lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez and former champion Juan Diaz. Khan has expressed his interest in facing the winner of the bout, although it should be noted that Diaz has stated he isn?t fighting above the 135 pound limit anymore.
Khan is coming off of a May 15th beating over brash-talking former champion Paulie Malignaggi and the Theatre in Madison Square Garden. Malignaggi talked a big game heading into the bout but Khan shut him down, controlling the fight with his speed and fluidity. Malignaggi had no answer and the bout was halted in the 11th round.
If Marquez is to emerge victorious a clash with Khan would definitely be intriguing although the Mexico City native may be facing an uphill battle at the age of 36 and fighting out of his natural weight class. While Khan may be in the back of his mind Marquez spoke like a true professional, focusing only on his clash with Diaz.
?I think this fight is going to be better than the first one because Juan Diaz is a great fighter and a great warrior and I am too,” Marquez stated. ?I like to fight. Everyone who knows me, knows I like landing so many punches. I want to dedicate this to all of my fans around the world, my family, my kids, my wife and the Mexican fans around the world. I have prepared very hard and I am ready.?
Last year Marquez and Diaz engaged in the 2009 Fight of Year at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. After getting off to a strong start Diaz? momentum was dulled as Marquez adapted to his younger foe and began to pick him apart. After turning the tide of the fight Marquez would brutally halt Diaz in the 9th. Marquez is a huge favorite heading into the contest but Diaz shouldn?t be discounted.
For images of Amir Khan, Juan Diaz, Juan Manuel Marquez, Oscar De La Hoya, and others from today?s final press conference please click on the collage below?
