Promoter Frank Warren believes Amir Khan still has what it takes to make to the top.
Promoter says Khan can follow in the footsteps of Pacquiao
Promoter Frank Warren believes Amir Khan still has what it takes to make it to the top and says he will draw inspiration from Manny Pacquiao, who on Sunday proved he is the best fighter in the world.
Khan had been sparring with Pacquiao at trainer Freddie Roach's gym in preparation for Saturday's victory over Oisin Fagan, while the Filipino sent Oscar De La Hoya into likely retirement later that night.
Khan had a point to prove following his devastating first round knockout loss to Breidis Prescott in the summer and drew great strength from Pacquiao, who was KO'd twice early in his career before climbing his way to the top.
"Manny has been an inspiration for Amir," Warren said. "Manny was stopped twice earlier in his career and now he's pound-for-pound the best in the world.
Quality fighter
"It shows how you can come back from adversity. Amir has the mindset of a winner and he will be a winner.
"He won an Olympic silver medal at 17 and six months later beat the world's best amateur in Mario Kindelan.
"Amir's a quality fighter. Beating Fagan was good for him. His focus impressed me.
"Good comes out of bad and that's the way to look at the Prescott defeat. Amir's full of it and is enjoying it so much but we need to take each fight as it comes.
"Amir wanted to fight as soon as possible for a world title, but you have to go to school before you go to work and that's what he's doing now."
Khan is expected to defend his Commonwealth title sometime in February as he continues to rebuild his reputation.