Amir Khan and Faryal Makhdoom
Amir Khan has married his fairytale princess in an exotic ceremony at an historic New York building transformed for the occasion into a scene from the Arabian Nights.
The boy from Bolton who grew into Britain’s youngest Olympic boxing medallist and then a two-time world champion took as his bride the beautiful heiress, student and budding model Faryal Makhdoom.
Amir, 26, made his entry into the grand ballroom at the fabled Waldorf Astoria hotel accompanied by a group of close friends from Lancashire who comprise the core of Khan’s army of travelling fans, all dancing wildly to the beat of drummers.
Faryal, 20, was escorted by her father, a wealthy businessman, and her brother as the great and the good of New York’s Asian community applauded.
The couple dazzled in colour-matching costumes of red, silver and white, heavily encrusted with glittering gems.
Khan’s traditional Pakistani tunic was crowned by a crimson turban.
Miss Makhdoom’s dress was so richly embroidered that it weighed on her petite frame as she climbed the stairs to the stage, there to take her place beside Amir on a silver throne framed by giant golden pillars hung with plush velvet drapes.
This gilded union was not only blessed by a Muslim holy man but also welcomed by those present most closely involved with Khan’s life and career as he continues his comeback from shock defeat in search of a third world title.
Richard Schaefer, chief executive of his American promoters Golden Boy, said, “This wedding seems to me to be perfect timing for Amir as he matures into a fine young man and as a fighter.”
Khan’s father and mentor, Shah, said, “We are very happy as a family and I am sure the responsibility of married life will be good for Amir.”
Although a strict teetotaller, Khan himself admitted to being distracted by the celebrity life in Hollywoodwhen preparing there for fights under renowned trainer Freddie Roach. He has also been seen occasionally on the party scene in Manchester, most recently with United players as they celebrated winning the Premier League.
As he prepared to wed he said, “It’s time for me to get married and settle down. I know Faryal will help me with my career as well.”
No comments:
Post a Comment