Boxer Khan withdraws appeal of loss to Peterson

Former light welterweight world champion Amir Khan has withdrawn an appeal of last month's controversial loss to Lamont Peterson. The appeal was supposed to be heard Wednesday by the International Boxing Federation, one of two governing boxing bodies that sanctioned the 140-pound world title fight in Washington, D.C on December 10. Peterson (30-1-1, 15 KOs) won the fight on a split decision against Khan (26-2, 18 KOs) to claim the IBF and World Boxing Association belts. The WBA, which also sanctioned the fight, ordered a rematch on January 12 after Khan complained of unfair judging. "Team Khan have decided to withdraw their appeal and focus their full attention on Amir's next fight," Khan's promoter Golden Boy Promotions said in a news release. "We are pleased to have been vindicated by the World Boxing Association's recent decision to mandate an immediate rematch." The withdrawal of the appeal means Peterson will keep the IBF title. But he could be stripped of the WBA belt if he decides not to stage a rematch with Khan. Khan lost his titles after referee Joe Cooper docked him two points for excessive pushing. Khan has called for a rematch saying he is willing to split the earnings 50/50 with Peterson.