Amir Khan Vows To Knockout Extremism

By Terence Dooley

 

Amir Khan, 30-3 (19), has witnessed the rise of Ukip in his hometown of Bolton as well as the spread of Islamic extremism in the U.K. and has vowed to battle both groups by teaching school children the importance of fighting extreme world views.  The former world champion is in the process of securing his next bout, but took a time out to send a message of unity to his fellow Muslims as well as firing out a message to Ukip. 

 

The 2004 Olympic Silver Medallist intends to use his media profile to set a positive example for young Muslims.  The 28-year-old also implored impressionable youngsters to avoid being ensnared online.

 

“Kids don't grow up thinking about going out and killing innocent people,” said Khan when discussing the issue with the Daily Star.  “It's why I go to schools and tell them: 'Look, you want to follow the right path.  You want to represent your country in a good way.  You want to build a name for yourself and your families'.  I stand up all the time and say this.  Obviously innocent people shouldn't be killed.  Obviously this is wrong."

 

He added: “I get questioned a lot, but I think we have to be brave about this.  I try to stand up and say the right things and get the message out.  What's happening gives all Muslims a bad name.”

 

Khan also bemoaned the rise of Ukip, arguing that he represented the country well as both an amateur and professional fighter so is more British than the party, which claims to represent the average British person.

 

“I've got nothing but a lot of love here from a lot of people,” stated Khan when referring to his fans in Bolton and across the U.K.  “But maybe it's because I'm probably more British than Ukip are because I represented the country in the Olympics.”