Great British boxing star Amir Khan
Amir Khan is one of British boxing's brightest young hopes; a fighter and a hero who is very proud of his heritage.
You have had quite a journey since your burst on to the scene at the Greece Olympics in 2004. Can you put it into words?
It has been a fantastic journey, a dream come true, my professional career is going really well and I couldn’t ask for more.
Who were your role models as a child and why did you look up to them so much?
My parents and grandparents were my role models as they were always there for me and supported me throughout my child hood, and also Muhammad Ali as he has achieved so much in the world of boxing he’s a true legend and I’ve always wanted to be like him.
How do you feel knowing you are now a role model yourself?
I receive a lot of fan mail and emails, It feels good to be a positive role model out there, it shows that you are doing something good and it is special as people are looking up to you and want to be just like you.
Who gave you the best piece of advice when you were starting out in boxing and what was it?
My father gave me the best piece of advice, when took me to the boxing gym for the very first time it felt like home, from a very young age he use to take me to the gym all the time it gave me something to do and kept me off the streets, and he has always been there throughout my career. He told me whatever I put in boxing I would get as much back out if it, and he was right.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to play professional sport?
Remember the harder you train in the gym the easier it is in the ring, like wise with any other sport.
You are from Bolton and your extended family descend from Pakistani. How would you describe your own ethnicity?
I am a British Muslim and very proud of it, I was born and bred in England and at the same time very pleased of representing the country, and I still respect my roots where I came from through my parents and grandparents.
Describe what your life was like growing up in 90's and 00’s Britain, what your school and social life were like and what hobbies you had.
It was very hard growing up when I was young and in school, as I was very dedicated to my sport and needed a lot of time off from school to take part in competitions etc but when I started winning medals and getting noticed things started to flow and became a lot easier.
What are your views on some of the problems caused by young people today?
the more the people can do for the kids to make them take part in sport and youth organisations the less they will be on the streets doing things they shouldn’t be doing, as they have nothing else better to do.
What are your hopes and aspirations for yourself and your generation?
To become a world champion and to be known as a true legend all around the world.
