Amir Khan isn't an MMA dilettante. He has a real interest in the sport.
The boxer has an investment in the Super Fight League, a promotion which operates in Asia and the Middle East.
His interest in the sport is not just financial though. One day, he might make the switch from boxing to MMA.
Next weekend, Khan and Canelo Alvarez face off in one of this year's most anticipated fights. In preparation for the fight, Khan has been using MMA training techniques.
Speaking to The Guardian, the British fighter related his appreciation for the sport and how he would never say 'no' about the possibility of the switch happening in the future.
The 29-year-old is also confident that if he was to go toe-to-toe with the UFC champion in the featherweight division, he would be the victor.
Of course, the 145 lb champion at the moment just happens to be Conor McGregor.
I’ve always been a UFC fan and I like McGregor and the way he promotes it. If I was to fight the champion around 147lb I would fancy my chances. You never know what will happen in the future – I would never say ‘no’ to getting into MMA. I could do it under my own banner and what a way to do it. My speed would be perfect, it’s hit and move.
Just look at when McGregor beat José Aldo. The guy leant forward, over extended and fell short, McGregor stepped back and threw the straight right. It was a proper boxing move. I would not let anyone get close to me, I would take a step back and keep it long. I also believe that us boxers punch harder than MMA fighters anyway.
A recent visit to one of his promotion's shows appears to have been key in raising his confidence regarding a transition to MMA.
I was at the last SFL show in Dubai, watching closely at the guys in my weight. Even though I have no experience of MMA, I could have stepped in and done the business. I’ve already done MMA training too. It’s good for preparing to fight a guy like Canelo who likes to put the pressure on. It’s all about the feet, the feet have to be in the right position.
