Quigg to train with Freddie Roach

Scott Quigg, searching for "a fresh challenge," has parted ways with former trainer Joe Gallagher
Scott Quigg, searching for "a fresh challenge," has parted ways with former trainer Joe Gallagher

Former junior featherweight world titleholder Scott Quigg announced Monday that he has teamed up with new trainer Freddie Roach, an International Boxing Hall of Famer, and will move his camp to Roach's Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California.

England's Quigg, who had been trained for the past six years by top British trainer Joe Gallagher, said he and Gallagher parted on amicable terms.

"We have been a great team and achieved a lot and had some great wins together," Quigg said of Gallagher. "I have moved up to featherweight with the goal of becoming a two-weight world champion and believe I need a fresh challenge to help me grow. Over the last few weeks I've been in America training, and I'm delighted to announce I will be basing myself in Los Angeles at the Wild Card gym working under the guidance of Freddie Roach."

The 28-year-old Quigg (31-1-2, 24 KOs) successfully defended his 122-pound world title six times before losing it by split decision to rival Carl Frampton in a heavily hyped unification fight in February 2016 in front of Quigg's hometown fans in Manchester, England.

Quigg suffered a broken jaw in the bout and laid off until returning in December. He moved up to the featherweight division and knocked out Jose Cayetano in the ninth round.

Quigg said he will return to Roach's gym this week to continue training, although he does not yet have his next bout scheduled.

"This is an opportunity that I couldn't pass up, and I believe this move and change will take me to another level," Quigg said. "I'd like to thank Joe for everything he has done for me. He is a tremendous coach and friend, which we will remain. Our first fight together was for the British title, and I went on to become world champion under his guidance, and for that I will be forever grateful. I wish Joe and all the lads every success in the future."