Freddie Roach believes Ariza’s absence was not the reason for Khan’s knockout – Boxing News
Hall of Famer trainer Freddie Roach is of the view that Amir Khan’s new strength and conditioning coach Ruben Tabares did a marvellous job. He insists Alex Ariza’s absence was not the reason for Khan’s knockout by Garcia.
“I don't think that (Ariza’s absence made a difference). The new strength coach is a hurdler,” said Roach when asked about Khan’s strength and conditioning for the Garcia fight.
He added, “And I don't think that Amir's legs gave out in three rounds. I thought that the new guy did a very good job. But Ariza is very good at what he does also.”
Amir Khan was knocked out by Danny Garcia in the fourth round. The Bolton proud hit the mat thrice; once in round three and twice in round four. Khan, who initially thought he was ready to take on Garcia’s thrashing even after the referee stopped the show,
is now aware of how he mishandled the fight.
Khan previously worked with Alex Ariza, renowned strength and conditioning coach. However, the British-Pakistani fighter fired Ariza when the latter abandoned him in Baguio City.
Not only Khan, even Roach was furious over Ariza’s act. However, the well-known strength and conditioning coach revealed he was permitted by Former WBO welterweight titlist Manny Pacquiao to leave for New York to work with Chavez jr.
Khan was disappointed in Ariza, believing he is not getting as much attention he should when he is the number 2 fighter in Ariza’s list. He immediately fired and went onto hire Ruben Tabares as his conditioning coach.
Before the fight, Khan was highly excited with Ruben’s new strength gaining methods. Tabares made Khan turn green, by making him consume vegetables only.
Even Tabares was confident that his methods will make Khan stronger and more physically capable in the ring, but it did not happen. Instead, Khan lost the fight to Garcia via knockout in the fourth round. Probably, Tabares new techniques did not work for
the Bolton proud.
Khan is now considering changes in his squad. He wants his trainers to give him more time than ever before.
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