By Edward Chaykovsky
Michael Koncz, adviser to eight division world champion Manny Pacquiao, says Amir Khan (31-3, 19KOs) is the top choice for his fighter's next bout in early 2016.
Pacquiao is still recovering from a right shoulder injury and his return is being planned for either February or April. He was last in action on May 2nd, when he lost a twelve round unanimous decision to Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The upcoming bout will be the second consecutive Las Vegas bout for Pacquiao (57-6-2, 38 KOs). The date and venue will be secured once Pacquiao's promoter, Bob Arum of Top Rank, receives medical clearance from Manny's surgeon.
Arum named several fighters who are in the running to face Pacquiao - including Khan, IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook, junior welterweight titlist Terence Crawford, and junior welterweight contender Lucas Matthysse. The fifth name, Juan Manuel Marquez, has already ruled himself out from any discussions.
Both Arum and Koncz agree that Khan is the preferred choice.
If the ongoing negotiations with Khan fall apart, Koncz has named Brook (35-0, 24KOs) as the second best choice. Brook defends his title next month against Diego Chaves.
"Amir Khan I think is the best choice for the fans, and Brook is the second choice," Koncz told ESPN.
