November 17th, 2009 by Phil Lythell

Amir Khan will defend his WBA world light-welterweight title against Dimitry Salita on December 5.

The bout will be Khan’s first fight since he won the title with a unanimous decision against Andreas Kotelnik at the MEN Arena, Manchester in July.

The former Olympic silver medallist will be taking on the Ukrainian boxer at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle and would be well-advised not to take the bout lightly.

Salita has an unblemished record with 30 victories in as many fights in his professional career with 16 knockouts. Although he may not have a particularly high profile in the wider boxing community he will be keen to upset the odds by handing the Bolton man the second defeat of his career.

Khan is unlikely to be complacent though after he was taught a salutary lesson by Breidis Prescott in June last year. The heavy-hitting Colombian was seen as Khan’s first real test since joining the professional ranks amid criticism that his promoter Frank Warren had been hand-feeding his charge sub-standard opposition.

After just 54 seconds Khan had been knocked out, dismantled by his more experienced opponent. A glass jaw and lack of defensive nous was cited as the reason for his spectacular defeat and legendary trainer Freddie Roach was brought in to rescue the young pugilist’s career.

Khan has responded well to Roach’s teachings and certainly looks a more rounded boxer than the one that entered the ring against Prescott.

Whatever happens, it will be a fight not to be missed.

Amir Khan tickets are available to compare and but online now.