Peterson trainer criticises Khan

Lamont Peterson's trainer and manager has accused Amir Khan of using "foul tactics and false accusations" to discredit the new champion after last month's controversial fight between the pair.

Khan has publicly aired several grievances surrounding the disputed defeat after losing his IBF and WBA light-welterweight titles in Peterson's native Washington on December 10. Those complaints range from referee Joe Cooper's decision to dock the Englishman two points to the judges' decisions and alleged discrepancies with the scorecards.

Khan then reignited the issue last week by questioning the role of the then-unidentified Mustafa Ameen at ringside.

The new champion's team have finally broken their silence, with Barry Hunter, Peterson's mentor, criticising Khan's conduct while making it clear 'mystery man' Ameen has nothing to do with them.

"Unfortunately, we are in this process of dealing with these unfounded protests," Hunter said in a statement. "It would be an understatement to characterise Lamont as being disappointed in the unprofessional manner in which Khan is attempting to discredit his performance in the ring and victory.

"We were raised to conduct ourselves where champions display professionalism, both in victory and defeat. Lamont previously tasted defeat and handled it the way it should be handled - he worked harder on areas that needed improvement to maximise his performance in the ring. Now, he is world champion.

"Khan blames everyone and everything but his performance and lack of ability to make adjustments in the ring for his loss."

Hunter continued: "Each claim is boldly false, but because Golden Boy and Khan have the financial resources to file protests and lawyers to create questionable accusations we are forced to address these issues. We will not let these foul tactics take away from Lamont's hard work, dedication and monumental victory.

"Furthermore, since Khan continues to focus on a man at ringside I want to be very clear - Mustafa Ameen is in no way, nor has he ever been affiliated or associated with anyone within Team Peterson. That includes myself, Lamont and Anthony Peterson (Lamont's brother and fellow fighter).

"Real champions don't continue to come up with various excuses and false accusations in hopes that something will stick to cover up for a loss."