Amir Khan-Billy Dib No Longer for Pearl Championship, Will Be for Vacant International WBC Title Instead

After British boxer Amir Khan's original July 12 opponent, Neeraj Goyat, was forced to pull out due to injuries sustained in a car accident, a replacement fighter was selected to face Khan in Saudi Arabia for the World Boxing Council's pearl championship. Australia's Billy Dib received the nod and was set to meet "King Khan" in the ring two weeks from now.

A day after the WBC announced Khan's new dance partner, the sanctioning body revealed that Khan-Dib would no longer be swapping leather for the inaugural pearl championship. Instead, they'll face off for the vacant international WBC welterweight title.

"The World Boxing Council had prepared a special belt [the pearl belt] to recognize the winner of this fight [between Khan and Goyat] not only because this is a historical contest, but also as a symbol of peace to recognize the efforts of Amir Khan; representing Great Britain and Pakistan. And Neeraj Goyat; representing India. This is to boost sports and social development in this region," explained the WBC in a press release.

"Considering all these elements and above all the proven quality of both contenders, the WBC approved Khan vs. Dib for the vacant international welter belt. The pearl belt will be reserved for another special occasion in the future."

Khan-Dib hits Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 12.