Devon Alexander vs Amir Khan for December 7 in Dubai

Amir Khan (28-3) is to challenge Devon Alexander (25-1) for the American's IBF welterweight title in a proposed venue in Dubai on December 7.

The winner of almost certainly the first big fight to be held in the Arabian desert, will propel themself towards a spring 2014 mega-fight with Floyd Mayweather.

Promoter Richard Schaefer said "We will be finalizing and signing the contracts in the next couple of weeks. We have opened up discussions with the ruling family of the Emirates who have made it very clear that they are keen to put on a major boxing event."

Khan is coming off a competitvie decision win over veteran Julio Diaz, while Alexander dominated Lee Purdy in his last outing, despite breaking a hand as early as the first round.

Both fighters will be extremely motivated for the bout considering the next step for the winner would be against Floyd, most likely.

Of course, that will hinge on Mayweather beating Canelo Alvarez on September 14. If that fight is really competitive and Floyd wins, we may also see an immediate rematch. It's at least worth thinking about.