WBA Orders Khan-Peterson Rematch

Amir Khan in a pose with Lamont Peterson (right)

The World Boxing Association has confirmed it has ordered a rematch between Amir Khan and Lamont Peterson.

Khan lost his WBA and IBF titles to Peterson in December http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/boxing/16129087.stm and has questioned a number of aspects of the fight.

And WBA vice-president Gilberto Jesus Mendoza said: “I can confirm we have ordered a direct rematch.”

Khan's promoter Richard Schaefer earlier revealed he had received a letter from the WBA notifying him of its decision.

Schaefer, chief executive of Golden Boy Promotions, told ESPN: “I'm thrilled that he's getting [the rematch] and hope we can start the negotiations and get the fight done.

“Amir and Lamont are both terrific young men and athletes who fought their hearts out in Washington in December and I'm sure this decision will get applause by fight fans around the world.'

Khan alleges that WBA official Michael Welsh suffered interference at ringside http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/boxing/16435696.stm during the fight from 'mystery man' Mustafa Ameen.

Khan's camp launched the appeal with the IBF in December principally on the grounds of “miscalculation of the scoring” and “inappropriate conduct by officials”.