Amir Khan intends to win in style when he faces Chris Algieri in New York on Friday night but knows a setback against the American would be disastrous for his career.
Khan has rejected a meeting with British rival and IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook in order to duel with a fighter who was knocked down six times by Manny Pacquiao in his last outing.
The 28-year-old from Bolton is ready to send a message out to Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather that he is a credible challenger, while accepting the consequences if he fails to deliver.
"It's not only about winning this fight, it's about winning in style and looking good," Khan said.
"I want to put a great performance in and send a statement around the world about who is Amir Khan.
"I'm 28 now and at that stage of my career where I can't afford to make any mistakes.
"I'm at the peak of my career and if I make any mistakes then I'm done. I don't want to take a step backwards."
Khan insists he has not spoken to the Mayweather or Pacquiao camps in the hope of securing a clash with one of the modern greats, instead concentrating only on Algieri.
One of the scorecards for Algieri's loss to Pacquiao last November read 120-102 such was the size of his points defeat, but Khan insists the New York resident will be a dangerous opponent at the Barclays Centre.
"He's been in the ring with Manny Pacquiao and has fought on that big stage before, so we know that's not going to scare him or get him nervous," Khan said.
"I'll be ready for whatever he brings to the table. If Chris wants to fight, I'll be there. If he wants to box and move, I'll be there.
"It's going to be tough, but I believe I have the skills, movement and technique to win and look really good against him."
"It should be entertaining - there will be a lot of punches thrown, a lot of movement."
Source: PA
