The O2

Amir Khan's big WBA World title clash against Andreas Kotelnik will now take place at the Manchester Evening News (MEN) Arena on Saturday 18 July 2009.

The Bolton star was originally scheduled to challenge Kotelnik for his WBA World Light-Welterweight title at The O2 arena in London on June 27, but because the Ukrainian has suffered a minor injury and tooth infection the bout had to be postponed.

Unfortunately for Boxing fans the postponement means The O2 cannot stage the big fight. However, the M.E.N Arena, host to so many big UK fights nights in the past, have come to Khan's rescue and have rearranged things to host Khan's first world title challenge at the scene of his fifth round victory over Mexican legend, Marco Antonio Barrera in March.

The 22-year-old star said, "Firstly, I'm delighted that my World title fight against Kotelnik is still on and when July 18 comes I will never be more ready for him although, the postponement of the fight is a pain. In boxing these things happen so I have to be professional and stay focussed. However, when I'm the victor and I am finally crowned World champion it will make up for it."

"Freddie Roach is adjusting my training accordingly so that I'm ready for the new date and I'm at my peak both physically and mentally,"

He added, "I was looking forward to headlining at The O2 arena again and to fighting in the capital as I have a lot of fans in London. I always get a great reception there so hopefully I can go back sometime soon, maybe for my first defence! I had a great night at the M.E.N Arena against Barrera last time out and now I aim to win the World title against Kotelnik there too."

Fans who have purchased tickets for the fight at The O2 are asked to return them to their point of purchase only in order to:

Exchange them for identical tickets for the new date at the MEN Arena, receive a full refund if they cannot make the new date or to purchase additional tickets for the new date and venue. Further information on tickets can be found on www.frankwarren.tv or by telephoning the Frank Warren Promotions Box Office on 01992 550 888 e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or from all ticket outlets and agents.

Download as PDF [118KB PDF doc opens in new window]
Download as DOC [157KB Word doc opens in new window]