Amir Khan insists his fight against Neeraj Goyat is not a sign his career at the highest level is over.
Goyat, a former mixed martial artist, represents a considerable step down for Khan following his defeat by world champion Terence Crawford in April.
But the Brit, who will reportedly earn £7million for the contest, insists victory can act as a launchpad to a clashes with the best in the welterweight division.
"I'm always focused and I always give it my all; this fight could lead to bigger fights against Kell Brook and Manny Pacquiao," said Khan.
"But I need to win this in good style; if I don't look good it doesn't put me up there with the best in the welterweight division.
"I want to be back in the mix again; it's a quick turnaround from the Crawford fight but I want to get back in the mix right away."
Khan and Goyat are marketing the fight as a contest between Pakistan and India, although it will take place in Saudi Arabia, a country with a poor human rights record.
Khan, who will not be trained by long-time coach Virgil Hunter, added: "Being a British Pakistani and boxing an Indian fighter gives this fight more spice, especially in that part of the world.
"I have a lot to lose in this fight. Neeraj wants to make a name for himself and if he wins this fight it moves him to another level; thats why I need to take this fight seriously.
"We saw what happened to Anthony Joshua; he was knocked out by a fighter we all thought he would destroy."
The fight will take place at the 62,000-capacity King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah on July 12 and will headline a Super Boxing League event which will see two teams of six boxers - the Jeddah Tigers and the Jeddah Sharks - clash on the undercard.
Goyat said: "This fight is a very good opportunity for me. I'm taking it very seriously; I have worked hard and I am the only Indian boxer to beat a world champion.
"This fight is a matter of pride and peace for both of our countries; the relationship between India and Pakistan has issues but this will be a fight of pride."
