Boxing: Tyson’s Pakistan visit in jeopardy
Confirmation delayed due to Amir Khan’s controversial defeat in Washington .
KARACHI:
Mike Tyson’s highly anticipated visit to Pakistan for the upcoming Benazir Bhutto International Boxing Championship has fallen in jeopardy after Amir Khan’s controversial defeat to Lamont Peterson in Washington, according to a Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) official.
The PBF announced last week that the legendary boxer has shown interest in visiting Pakistan during the event – taking place from December 20 - where various countries are set to take part. However, Amir, who was dealing with Tyson on the PBF’s behalf, has extended his stay in the US as he prepares for an appeal over his shock loss.
As a result, the PBF is unaware of Tyson’s plans, prompting the possibility that fans might not see him in Pakistan.
“Amir was dealing with Tyson on our behalf but due to his loss, he’s very upset and has extended his stay in the US,” a PBF official told The Express Tribune. “We were expecting confirmation after his fight but we haven’t heard anything and that’s concerning.” However, the official said the PBF will finalise its arrangements to host the legendary boxer.
“We have sought security clearance from the interior ministry and we’ll get it soon.”
Meanwhile, the official added that Amir’s younger brother Haroon, will arrive over the weekend to represent Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 14th, 2011.
Mike Tyson’s highly anticipated visit to Pakistan for the upcoming Benazir Bhutto International Boxing Championship has fallen in jeopardy after Amir Khan’s controversial defeat to Lamont Peterson in Washington, according to a Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) official.
The PBF announced last week that the legendary boxer has shown interest in visiting Pakistan during the event – taking place from December 20 - where various countries are set to take part. However, Amir, who was dealing with Tyson on the PBF’s behalf, has extended his stay in the US as he prepares for an appeal over his shock loss.
As a result, the PBF is unaware of Tyson’s plans, prompting the possibility that fans might not see him in Pakistan.
“Amir was dealing with Tyson on our behalf but due to his loss, he’s very upset and has extended his stay in the US,” a PBF official told The Express Tribune. “We were expecting confirmation after his fight but we haven’t heard anything and that’s concerning.” However, the official said the PBF will finalise its arrangements to host the legendary boxer.
“We have sought security clearance from the interior ministry and we’ll get it soon.”
Meanwhile, the official added that Amir’s younger brother Haroon, will arrive over the weekend to represent Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 14th, 2011.