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Naz knows Amir Khan bag gold

29/ 8/2004

NAZEEM Hamed has hailed Amir Khan's "massive achievement" in reaching an Olympic final and has tipped the Bolton lightweight to claim gold for Britain.

The 17-year-old, whose style has been compared to the former WBO and IBF featherweight champion, faces a tough task to defeat defending champion Mario Kindelan, of Cuba, in the final.

But Hamed claimed: "The kid at 17 is amazing. To win the world (junior) championships and then go in the Olympics as Britain's only fighter is an absolutely massive achievement.

"He has been a breath of fresh air. I admire him and think he is fantastic.

"I am tipping him for gold. The kid is a great fighter. He has got the speed and co-ordination. He is an all-round fighter."

As for the comparisons being drawn between himself and Khan, Hamed told BBC Radio 5 Live: "We have a few similarities but we have a different style.

"I did not go to the Olympics and box people from all over the world - this kid is doing something extraordinary.

"He has got a good combination and some dangerous shots, a killer punch for his weight and style. I like the way he moves in and out. He has got some great plusses and I can honestly see him winning the gold.

"He seems to have a wise head on young shoulders, and a good trainer behind him."

Hamed revealed he had spoken to Khan during the teenager's bid to become Britain's youngest-ever boxing gold medallist.

"He was chuffed that I rang. He is a real down-to-earth guy and said that he would like to meet up in the boxing gym when he gets back. I said hopefully that will be with the gold medal.

"Regardless of what he gets back with, though, he has done so well and turned the Olympics upside down with the way he has been fighting.

"I am praying to Allah that this kid wins gold and brings it back to Britain."

Hamed has not fought since beating Spaniard Manuel Calvo on points on May 18, 2002, but revealed he is considering a comeback next year.

The 30-year-old said: "I am still fresh, still got the hunger and come back and do what I want to do. So early next year I reckon you will see me in the ring."

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