Khan vows to pass test of strength

Amir Khan is eager to silence those who doubt his knockout power when he comes up against former world title contender Graham Earl on Saturday.

Khan will mark his 21st birthday by taking a huge step up in class as he defends his Commonwealth lightweight title for the second time at the Bolton Arena.

"I'm very strong - I've been sparring guys two or three weights above me and even they are shocked," said Khan. "It's going to be a test for me to show 'look, I have got that power, that strength'."

With the Bolton native having been guided by the steady hand of promoter Frank Warren since turning professional in July 2005, Earl undoubtedly represents by far the toughest opposition Khan has faced so far.

"Yes, definitely," he agreed. "It's the next step up for me in the boxing game.

"Graham has won European titles, the WBU belt, British, Commonwealth titles. So yes, this is the next step up for me and it's going to take me to that next level."