A band of Amir Khan fans who call themselves ‘The Khan Army’ took offense and the stage to wage war against the brash trash-talking Paulie Malignaggi looking to administer a hurtin’ during the weigh-ins Friday at the posh Essex Hotel in New York, but ultimately all that was needed to get the job done is the one man army responsible for the namesake.
The British sensation Khan dominated and tore up Malignaggi from the onset using his patented fast hands and explosive footwork. Khan efficiently boxed and used his jab against his highly skilled but powerless opponent. Khan demonstrated his superior punching power as he rocked and snapped Malignaggi’s head back multiple times throughout the fight. In the middle of the 11th round, referee Steve Smoger finally called a halt to the one-sided beating as Khan was picking Malignaggi apart at will.
After the fight, Malignaggi was convinced that the young up-and-comer Khan is the real thing and said, “I’ve fought two elite fighters, Miguel Cotto and Amir Khan,”. Malignaggi also hinted into his future and said, “From here, I’m not sure where I go. I’ll sit down with my team. I don’t want to be a punching bag.” And by the looks of his bruised and swollen face after the fight, who can blame him for thinking of not wanting to fight again.
Malignaggi has had a pretty decent career that will be remembered more for his antics and verbal fireworks. His lack of punching power however limited his success against elite level fighters.
As for Khan, the future looks phenomenal and his trainer Freddie Roach wanted the hard-hitting WBA junior welterweight champion Marcos Maidana next. Khan has benefited immensely from hooking up with Roach and sparring with the best fighter in the planet Manny Pacquiao. A showdown with Maidana would be a dangerous proposition but will definitely reveal what Khan is truly made of. Maidana hits like a mule while Khan has had his issues with his chin in the past. The risk-reward ratio might very well be worth it though. One thing’s for sure, Khan-Maidana will be one of the most anticipated match-ups and would be a great showcase for two of boxing’s rising stars.
