Anti-Islamic backlash may KO Amir Khan-Mayweather's multi-mln dollar showdown

An anti-Islamic backlash following terrorist activities might knock out British boxing ace Amir Khan's hopes of a multi-million dollar showdown with undefeated American boxing champion Floyd Mayweather.

The former world light-welterweight champion from Bolton is reportedly said to be high on Mayweather's to-be-hit list but boxing sources in the United States have revealed that they sense a growing reluctance to promote a Muslim boxer, even though Khan has consistently condemned the outrages perpetrated in the name of his faith.

A leading boxing promoter revealed that any Muslim fighter would be a hard sell to TV audiences in such a high-profile fight, especially should the situation escalate, adding that there is so much Islamophobia around here following the hostage killings that it might be considered too great a risk, The Independent reported.

Khan, who watched Mayweather defeat Marcos Maidana in Las Vegas last week, has remained in the US to prepare for a proposed contest against an unspecified opponent in December.

The Briton said that he is unaware of any antipathy towards him because of his religious beliefs, although he has had several problems with US immigration authorities.