Khan Heading for Pro Debut

Amir Khan is brimming with enthusiasm at the prospect of the "new and exciting tests" which lie ahead in his professional career.

Victory over Mario Kindelán on Saturday offered concrete proof that Khan is ready to step away from the amateur ranks, and his debut as a professional has been inked in for July 16.

The fight, against as-yet-unnamed opposition, will feature on the undercard of Matt Skelton's British heavyweight title defence against Danny Williams at the ExCeL London arena, located in Docklands.

Khan said: "I'm looking forward to making my debut and can't wait to check out what is in store for me in the pros. As an amateur I've beaten everyone in the world and following my win over Kindelán there is nothing else I can do in the sport.

"Turning professional offers me new and exciting tests and I aim to become the best out there."

Promoter Frank Warren has been circumspect about Khan's immediate prospects, cautioning that he will not be contesting world title belts, even if all goes to plan, for a further three years.

The manner of the win over Kindelán, Cuba's double Olympic champion who denied Khan the lightweight gold in Athens last summer, convinced Warren that the 18-year-old has what it takes to succeed in the paid ranks.

"Amir's debut on July 16 will be the start of a journey that will hopefully lead to him becoming Britain's youngest ever world champion," said Warren. "I am really excited and looking forward to working with him to achieve this."