Amir Khan is confident of beating Andreas Kotelnik when the two go head-to-head for the WBA Light-welterweight title on July 18 and he rates the Ukrainian as one of the ‘weakest world champions.’
The fight was rescheduled after Kotelnik withdrew with a tooth infection and the Manchester MEN arena will now host the bout.
Khan admitted the postponement was a pain and trainer Freddie Roach has adjusted his training accordingly so the 22-year-old is in peak shape come fight night.
The Bolton-born fighter praised his opponent but is confident of doing a number on the 2000 Olympic silver-medallist.
“He’s a world champion, he’s better than any domestic lightweight out there, it’s going to be the next step up onto the world stage,” he told Setanta Sports News.
“He is a very patient fighter, picks the right shots, he’s clever.
“He’s a good world champion but I believe there’s better out there. It will be a tough fight, but I’ll beat him on the night.”
Roach is not underestimating Kotelnik but is in bullish mood ahead of the clash.
“I have confidence in my guy because I know where he’s at and I’ve studied his opponent,” he said.
“I've got the better guy.”