• Amir Khan controversy

'Mystery man' not an employee - IBF

ESPN staff
January 11, 2012

The IBF has put distance between itself and 'mystery man' Mustafa Ameen, saying he is "not an employee or official of the organisation".

Ameen is accused by Amir Khan of interfering with judges' scorecards during his fight with Lamont Peterson on December 16, which Khan lost on points. Ameen was seen at ringside talking to the WBA supervisor Michael Welsh, and also handling slips of paper.

He will justify his presence at the apron during the IBF's hearing into the bout, which will take place on January 18 in New York. Khan has appealed the result of the contest - but that decision was taken before the Ameen controversy erupted, and centres on the performance of referee Joe Cooper, who deducted Khan two points for pushing.

Richard Schaefer, CEO of Khan's promoters Golden Boy, said that Ameen is involved with the IBF, while Freddie Roach, Khan's trainer, contradicted this. The organisation has offered more clarity on the matter.

"Mr Ameen does outreach work for the IBF's SARB [Special Assistance for Retired Boxers] Education Fund," it said in a statement. "Mr Ameen agreed that he would network on behalf of the organisation with the purpose of connecting with these fighters in order for the IBF to provide them with some financial assistance.

"Mr Ameen is not an employee or an official of the organisation, nor does he receive any monetary compensation from the organisation for his efforts."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close