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Gavin slams Khan critics

26/ 6/2008

WORLD amateur champion Frankie Gavin has slammed the critics of his friend and former team-mate Amir Khan following the Bolton man's 18th professional win over Michael Gomez at the weekend.

Many have argued Khan is nowhere near ready to fight for a world title after he was dumped onto the canvas by veteran Gomez and had to battle hard before securing a fifth round stoppage win.

But while Olympic favourite Gavin admits Khan still has work to do in order to fulfil his major ambitions, he says the growing consensus that Khan is not yet star quality is based on simple jealousy.

Gavin said: "I think some people are jealous because he's a young man with a lot of money and he's got a lot of things going for him.

"So it doesn't surprise me that people say he's not ready. Amir showed a lot of great things in the Gomez fight in terms of his heart and determination.

"I have absolutely no doubt that Amir will go on to win a world title. I think he's done really well so far since turning professional. I think a lot of the criticism he has received is not really fair."

Gavin has already stated his intention to follow Khan into the professional ranks irrespective of what happens in Beijing, where he will start as favourite to claim gold in the lightweight division and better Khan's silver in 2004.

The pair were very close during their amateur days but never fought, with two scheduled fights falling through.

But Gavin admits he would relish the opportunity to finally test himself against the Bolton star - who is expected to be ringside in Beijing to cheer him on - down the line in the professional ranks.

"Watching Amir inspired me so much and I desperately want to emulate him by winning an Olympic medal," Gavin added. "Then if we both keep going the way we're going, who knows, perhaps we'll finally get in the ring one day."

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