Eight division world champion Manny Pacquiao reflected back and admits that he was close to a finalized deal at one point to face former training partner Amir Khan.

A few years ago the two boxers had announced a deal to collide in the Middle East, but the investors who were eager to stage the event were unable to provide proof of funds - which led to the entire event falling apart.

"Almost that fight [with Khan happened]," Pacquiao told Sky Sports. "Almost close to have that fight, but there was a problem about something. I will not disclose it."

For a period of time, Pacquiao and Khan were both trained by Freddie Roach. They sparred on numerous occasions at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California.

"Fighting in the ring, inside the ring is different than training," said Pacquiao. "Different than sparring or anything. Big difference."

Back in 2009, Pacquiao faced one of the biggest stars in UK history, Ricky Hatton, and scored a brutal one-punch knockout in the second round. That contest took place in Las Vegas.

The 42-year-old boxer still has the desire to stage a big fight in the UK

"I hope that one day I could have a fight there," Pacquiao said. "I'm hoping that one fight in the UK."

Pacquiao will snap a two-year layoff on Saturday night, when he returns to the ring to face WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The contest will headline a Fox Sports Pay-Per-View event.

The Filipino star was last seen in the ring back in July of 2019, when he picked up a twelve round split decision win over unbeaten Keith Thurman.