Now that Freddie Roach has addressed Khan's defensive flaws, and coached him to box more intelligently, I see no reason why he shouldn't go straight for JMM if the opportunity arises.
It will definitely be a steep challenge for him, but that's what it should be about. I think there is too much emphasis upon the fear of defeat in boxing. Almost all the greats were beaten at some stage of their career...some more than once. Calzaghe was a rare specimen, and as many are keen to point out, he was protected for too long.
The Prescott defeat could turn out to be a real blessing. Firstly, it forced Khan to re-consider his rash, gung-ho approach to fighting, and get back to what took him so far in his amateur days. Secondly, it removed the "0" from his record. He no longer has it to protect (and more crucially, nor does Frank Warren).
So, while Prescott would seem an obvious step along the way (I believe that the re-styled Khan would win easily), I would much rather see a big gamble and a fight with Marquez. Lose to Marquez, fair enough. Lose to Prescott again...and it would look much worse.
As for last night, credit to Barrera for fighting on. He knew he could take a NC, but chose to fight on. I wonder if the Doc whispered in his ear "Finish the round if you want your pay cheque". Cut or no cut, he was out-gunned.
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