Terence Crawford’s (34-0, 25 KOs) WBO World welterweight title defence against Amir Khan (33-4, 20 KOs) on April 20 is headed for Madison Square Garden.
Both men have enjoyed success at “MSG” during their careers and are relishing a return to New York’s iconic venue.
“I can’t wait to head back to New York City and Madison Square Garden for this fight with Amir Khan.” said WBO champion Crawford.
“The Garden is the perfect venue for a fight of this magnitude. I know that my fans will make the trip up to New York and I’ll have a ton of support when I step into the ring.
“I expect Khan’s British fans to come out as well, and I believe we will have a packed house on April 20. It’s going to be a great fight so make sure to get your tickets early.”
Omaha’s Crawford, who makes the second defence of his WBO crown, notched victories over Henry Lundy and Dominican Republic southpaw Felix Diaz at “The Garden”. While Khan, 32, scored a TKO over local-favourite Paul Malignaggi on his American debut back in 2010.
“New York is undoubtedly one of my most favourite cities in the world, and it’s like a second home to me,” Khan said.
“This is the biggest fight of my career against one of the world’s best in Terence Crawford, and Madison Square Garden is the perfect venue for a fight of this magnitude.
“It’s a short flight for my fans from the United Kingdom, and they will be coming over in droves to see this fantastic fight. I want to become a three-time world champion, and that is my primary motivation to win this fight.”
The Brit was offered a domestic dust-up with rival Kell Brook but instead opted for pound-for-pound king Crawford – on paper a much harder contest.
Khan is unbeaten at welterweight and also has a perfect record against left-handers but will enter the showdown as the underdog.
Crawford’s much-heralded punch variety, timing, accuracy and ring IQ will present a problem for Khan and trainer Virgil Hunter, who are back working together after Hunter’s health scare.