By Mark Vester
Graham Earl (25-2, 12KOs) has vowed to give unbeaten Olympian Amir Khan (14-0, 11KOs) a birthday shock when the two collide for Khan's Commonwealth lightweight title on Dec. 8 in Bolton. Earl speaking with BBC Sport, says Kahn has received undeserved recognition, attention and kudos from fans and media alike.
"They think I'm on the slide, especially after my defeat by Michael Katsidis," Earl said. "But they are going to be shocked. I'm a totally different fighter and I am hungrier than ever. Khan has become a thorn in my side. I'm number one in the division and have been for more than seven years. I have earned my way there through tough fights against tough opponents, not getting an easy way up. Granted he is an Olympic silver medalist. He has done what he has needed to do when he has been in the ring (as a professional) but the quality of opponents has not been up to scratch."
Earl doesn't care about Khan's belt, he wants to expose the young prospect in order to land some big paydays in the near future.
"The reason I am fighting is the name of Amir Khan, the media, the publicity and that financially it can all be very rewarding," said Earl. "He is number four in the British rankings, he is behind me and there is no position there for me to grab. The belt we are fighting for I have already won. There is a bit of resentment because I have been to the top and I have not had any of the publicity (Khan has had). You give them the money and the fame before they have earned it and the hunger goes."
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