Amir Khan asked David Cameron for help after being denied US visa

Boxing champion Amir Khan called David Cameron for a favour after he was denied entry to the US on the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Khan's visa application was denied as he tried to fly to Las Vegas to watch a fight between world champion Floyd Mayweather and Marcos Maidana.

Speaking to The Times (£), the 28-year-old said: "I was flying out on September 11. I think the immigration guys get edgy. They just told me my visa was refused and I couldn't get on the plane.

"David Cameron takes my calls. He's a good friend... I rang him and said I had a bit of a problem.

"He said, 'Hold on a minute,' then he called me back and it was sorted."

He added: "I also met Hillary Clinton in Washington and she asked me if I'd had problems, took my name and I haven't had a problem since. It's good to have those connections. I am grateful for what boxing has given me."

Before his trip in September, Amir said his visa had been approved but later declined.

He tweeted: "Visa to America was declined after i had it approved a week ago. Was looking forward to the fight. Means I'm still in England."