AMIR Khan faces his first overseas opponent since turning professional when he meets Vitali Martynov later this month.
The Bolton teenager will take on the Belarus boxer at Nottingham, on Saturday, January 28, in his first fight over six rounds.
Martynov has an impressive record of 10 wins from 11 fights with only one defeat in Germany. He has finished off seven of his opponents with knockouts.
Khan, who will also be in action on the undercard of the Matt-Skelton-Danny Williams Commonwealth title fight at Excele Arena, on Saturday, February 25, is confident he can handle his tough opponent, who comes from Minsk.
Khan said: "I have boxed all styles, from all over the world when I was an amateur and I know I can beat him."
Belarussians have a reputation as hard men who do not lie down easily and Martynov is expected to follow in the footsteps of Yuri Romanov, who beat Brits Steve Conway and Bobby Vanzie a couple of years ago.
Skelton's planned defence of his British title against Steve Gammer at Nottingham has been put on hold after his world title eliminator with Williams was arranged. Khan will now be on the undercard to top-of-the-bill British welterweight fight between Michael Jennings and Young Muttley.
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