Photos: Amir Khan vs. Neeraj Goyat - Jeddah Press Conference

British-Pakistani boxer Amir Khan said on Monday here in Jeddah that he is delighted to be in Saudi Arabia and will make history when he faces India’s national boxing hero Neeraj Goyat, the WBC Asian Champion on Friday (July 12) at King Abdullah Sports City.

Speaking to press conference on Monday at Jeddah Hilton, the former unified junior welterweight world champion said that it is going to be a big fight as it has been branded as Pakistan versus India.

“It is an exciting challenge and it will be the first time a British-Pakistani will fight an Indian boxer, which eventually will bring the two nations together in front of Saudi, Pakistani and Indian fans. I am looking forward to this fight and hope our fans here in Saudi Arabia will enjoy it,” he said.

Khan’s rival who has not arrived in the Kingdome, Goyat defeated Mexico’s Carlos Lopez Marmolejo via unanimous decision in a contest at the Danforth Music Hall earlier in April in Toronto.

Goyat, who is the WBC Asia welterweight titleholder has a record of 11 wins including two knockouts, three losses and two draws till date.

Earlier Goyat said: “This opportunity is as big as it gets for me. Everything that I have achieved till date wouldn’t matter when I enter the ring on July 12 taking on a seasoned, established superstar in Amir. I will be carrying the hopes of 1.2 billion on my shoulders who will expect me to bring the title by causing an upset.”

Super Boxing League promoter Bill Dosanjh said: “Definitely we are making history with this bout and also other six fights which will gather young Saudi talented boxers to exhibit their talents.”

Dosanjh announced that the teams of “Jeddah Tigers” and “ Jeddah Sharks” will face each other in various games.

Engineer Raed Abu Zinada, the general manager of Jeddah Season said that boxing is a major attraction for the Saudis.