Amir Khan believes "there is no doubt" that he would have struck gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics had he not turned professional last year.

The 19-year-old lightweight, from Bolton, who claimed silver in Athens two years ago, said: "If I had stayed amateur I would definitely have won the 2008 Olympics. If I had gone to Beijing, there is no doubt I definitely would have won the gold medal easily.

"I was only 17 in Athens but now I'm stronger and physically and mentally getting better as a fighter. I don't think there would have been any doubt that I would have won the gold medal."

Khan, who has set his sights on becoming a world champion after winning all eight of his fights since turning professional, added: "I could be a professional champion by the time the Olympics come around and that was the chance we decided to take.

"I know I can win a world title and if I do that before the 2008 Olympics it will prove it was the right decision (to go professional). I know I can do it. It's 2006 now and I can easily win a world title within two years."

Khan hopes to take on former amateur opponent Craig Watson in his next fight at the Bolton Arena on September 2.