Sunday 22 April 2018 01:43, UK
Amir Khan needed just 40 seconds to stop Phil Lo Greco as he announced his return with a whirlwind comeback victory in Liverpool.
The former world champion was ending an absence of almost two years and gave a reminder of his searing hand speed as he brushed aside Lo Greco at the Echo Arena.
Khan had not fought since a knockout loss to Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez in May 2016, but showed no lingering mental scars as he ruthlessly attacked Lo Greco from the opening bell.
His brash Canadian opponent had no answer to Khan's lightning start and a blazing right hand sent Lo Greco crumpling to the canvas.
Lo Greco clambered to his feet, but stumbled into a flurry of punches from Khan, and referee Victor Loughlin waved the fight off as he wilted by the ropes.
Khan celebrated wildly after nearly five years away from a British ring and then stoked up his rivalry with Kell Brook, who was watching from ringside.
"I want to say a big thank you to Liverpool, they were great tonight," Khan told Sky Sports.
"People wanted to see me come back and I wanted to prove a point. I've changed my trainer, I had to make changes.
"I came to do a clinical job and be smart and show good movement. Khan is back.
"I want to give the UK fans some big fights and sell out arenas and stadiums.
"We have many fighters around, I want to fight the top guys, I want to win another world title.
"The weight is an issue with Kell, I'm a 147lb fighter. I will fight and beat Kell Brook and the world knows it.
"Brook's been living off my name for a long time. I came and signed with Matchroom, I'm the one chasing Kell."
