Amir Khan reinstated as WBA champ after scandal

Boxer Amir Khan has been reinstated as the light-welterweight champion by the WBA following his controversial loss to Lamont Peterson.

10:11 12 July 2012

Boxer Amir Khan has been reinstated as the light-welterweight champion by the WBA following his controversial loss to Lamont Peterson. 

 

The British boxing pro lost his WBA and IBF belts in a highly-disputed loss to Peterson in the Washington fighter's hometown last December. 

 

Peterson admitted to using testosterone – apparently for medical reasons – before their bout, which called into question the validity of the initial result. 

 

Since then original "winner" Peterson tested positive for a banned substance.

 

"Justice has been done," Khan said. "I'm glad the WBA are reinstating me as champion, it means I walk into this fight as world champion.

 

"There is a chance to win the WBC belt as well but not only that, the Ring magazine title will be on the line as well.

 

"It means this fight will really show who is the best fighter in the 140lb division." 

 

The fight he is referring to is against WBC champion Danny Garcia on Saturday.

 

A statement from the WBA said: "The World Championships Committee of the World Boxing Association officially announced today its decision to reinstate the British boxer Amir Khan as super champion who may be able to unify title with Danny Garcia on Saturday, July 14.

 

"This decision was taken after the positive doping result of the American Lamont Peterson, confirmed by the medical experts.

 

"The WBA rules that states that no boxer has tested positively for prohibited substances can be rated, retain a title, or be permitted to fight in a sanctioned bout for a period of no less than six (6) months from the date of the positive test has been enforced.

 

"Given the circumstances, Peterson's status is champion in recess and it is subject to revision." 

 

The news doesn't give Khan the true champion title – instead he's "super champion" pending a review of Peterson's position – but it's an official acknowledgement that sends him well on his way to the top prize.