Rubio to coach Khan

Veteran already working with Bolton fighter ahead of title defence

Last updated: 26th July 2008

Amir Khan has announced the appointment of Cuba's former Olympic coach Jorge Rubio as his new trainer.

The 21-year-old Commonwealth lightweight title holder has been without a trainer since splitting with Oliver Harrison earlier this year.

Salford trainer Harrison had guided Khan's unbeaten career since the Olympic silver medallist turned professional in 2005.

While Khan's advisers searched for Harrison's long-term replacement, Sports Network matchmaker Dean Powell was in charge of the Bolton fighter's corner for his 18th fight against Michael Gomez in June.

Names such as Freddie Roach, Buddy McGirt and the Mayweather brothers Floyd and Roger were thought to be in the frame before it emerged that veteran Rubio was being lined up.

It was confirmed on Saturday that Rubio is already working with the youngster in Bolton ahead of his September 6th title defence.

"I'm delighted that Jorge is now my trainer and I look forward to working with him towards winning the world title," Khan said.

"I met with a lot of trainers when I was in America and had plenty of training sessions with everyone and they were happy to come and work with me in Bolton.

"But I was impressed most by Jorge and his set up and more importantly I felt comfortable working with him and his training methods will give me a new dimension."

Rubio, now based in Miami, said: "It's fantastic to be given the opportunity to work with such a natural talent like Amir and I believe that I can bring the best out in him. I'm really impressed by what I've seen of him so far and I know that we still have a lot of work to do."

It has also been confirmed Powell will remain as part of Khan's team.