Khan out to prove title credentials

Amir Khan believes victory over Martin Kristjansen at the Bolton Arena on Saturday night will prove he is ready to fulfil his dream of winning a world lightweight title before the end of the year.

Khan faces his 17th professional test against the Dane and has been promised by his promoter Frank Warren that a good performance could pave the way for a clash with new WBO champion Nate Campbell.

The Briton is itching to fight the 36-year-old, who was a shock winner over Juan Diaz last month, and insisted: "After Kristjansen I'll be ready for a world title shot and I'm going to prove that."

He added: "I'm getting stronger all the time, as I proved in my fight against (Gairy) St Clair. I've come through a lot of tests and I'm just focusing on Kristjansen - then we'll see where we go from there.

"Nate Campbell is a good boxer with fast hands and good footwork, and his win over Diaz has left the division open. It's up for grabs for anyone who is young and ambitious and is ready to step up."

Khan passed another stiff test when he won all 12 rounds against experienced former world title challenger St Clair last time out and believes that kind of test will stand him in good stead for his next step up.

"I've had a lot of experience already," added Khan. "I learnt a lot of new things about myself in the St Clair fight and I'm still learning.

"By the time I fight for a world title I will have the answers."