Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan confirm talks over WBO world welterweight fight later in 2017
Amir Khan’s long-awaited ambition to fight Manny Pacquiao edged a step closer to realisation with both fighters confirming they are in talks over a WBO world welterweight clash later this year.
Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum had previously said that talk of a fight between the pair, who used to train together under Freddie Roach, was “complete bulls***”.
But overnight, Pacquiao, who last April retired from the ring only to return and reclaim the belt with a win over Jessie Vargas in November, suggested the fight was on the cards for later in 2017.
The 38-year-old tweeted: “My team and I are in negotiations with Amir Khan for our next fight. Further announcement coming soon.”
My team and I are in negotiations with Amir Khan for our next fight. Further announcement coming soon. #TeamPacquiao pic.twitter.com/nW5jpmwVJs
— Manny Pacquiao (@mannypacquiao) February 23, 2017
The Filipino recently asked his Twitter followers who he should fight in his next bout with 48% of them voting for a showdown with Khan.
Khan, meanwhile, has made no secret of his ambition to step into the ring with Pacquiao.
He tweeted: “Currently negotiating with Manny #teampacquiao. Coming soon. Watch this space!”
Pacquiao has previously said he wants his next fight to be in the United Arab Emirates but it is also believed a Khan-Pacquiao bout could potentially take place in Khan’s home town of Bolton or else Manchester, with 20 May mooted as a possible date.