Kotelnik refused visa

Frank Warren has blasted the United Kingdom's entry policy after Andreas Kotelnik could not obtain a visa in time to promote his forthcoming world title fight with Amir Khan at London's O2 Arena.

Warren claimed it would be easier for an illegal immigrant to reach these shores and claim benefits than for a world champion sportsman who has already fought in Britain three times before.

Former sports minister Richard Caborn intervened over the weekend to try and speed up the process but to no avail.

"It is easy to come into the country if you haven't got a visa and you haven't got a passport. It is the easy way to get in. You get a flat, sign on and do what you like. But if you are a sportsman and a world champion it is more difficult," said promoter Warren.

"The whole process is ridiculous. This night (of boxing) will create work for people in this country. It is great for the country. It is a high-profile event being shown around the world. What are we in this position for?
"I appreciate the efforts Richard has gone to. I am very, very disappointed and quite angry about it. I shouldn't think he is a threat to national security."

Kotelnik will, however, pose a significant danger to Khan, who is stepping up to light-welterweight for his first world title shot just seven months after suffering a first-round defeat to Breidis Prescott.

Stuck in Dusseldorf, Kotelnik sent his own strongly-worded views both on the British embassy's efforts - "there was no co-operation and I was handled like s***" - and of Khan.

The WBA light-welterweight champion has a record of 31 wins and one draw from 34 fights. The last time he was in Britain he beat Gavin Rees by knock-out.

And Kotelnik is determined to take out his visa frustrations on Khan.
"I will knock Amir Khan out on June 27 as I am so annoyed right now," said the Ukrainian.

"Khan is a good ambitious fighter. Like me he won a silver medal at the Olympics and we were beaten by the great Mario Kindelan. But that is where the similarity ends.

"I am a world champion and I will show my class against this child."

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