Amir Khan drafts in last-minute replacement trainer after coach Virgil Hunter is rushed to hospital with health scare
Former unified light-welterweight champ bringing in Joe Goossen as his new trainer for his April 21 comeback fight against Canadian Phil Lo Greco
AMIR KHAN has been forced into a dramatic late change after his long-time coach Virgil Hunter was rushed to hospital.
Khan was training with Hunter in Oakland, California when Hunter suffered a health scare that has not been disclosed.
It has led to the former unified light-welterweight champ bringing in Joe Goossen as his new trainer for his April 21 comeback fight against Canadian Phil Lo Greco at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.
A statement was recently issued by Hunter’s spokeswoman Julie Goldsticker regarding the trainers health scare.
It read: “Virgil Hunter experienced a health scare this week and was hospitalized.
“We are happy to report that he is recovering and getting stronger every day.
“We appreciate everyone’s thoughts and prayers and request that his privacy be respected while he recovers.
“There will not be any further statements made at this time as we allow him to heal.”
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The vastly experienced Goossen has trained fighters like Michael Nunn, Joel Casamayor and Diego Corrales.
Speaking to ESPN, Khan said: “Virgil wasn’t too well, so I needed someone else in with the same experience and who could help me.
“Me and Joe spent a week together in a boxing gym in [San Francisco]. I felt good working with him and glad he came at such notice.
“He’s helping me on a few areas and I like the work he’s doing with me.
“We’re breaking down the fight with me and Lo Greco and setting up a game plan to go in the fight with.”