David Haye and trainer Shane McGuigan split after Tony Bellew defeat

By Richard Damerell

Image: David Haye and Shane McGuigan are no longer working together

David Haye and trainer Shane McGuigan have announced a harmonious end to their working relationship following the heavyweight's upset defeat by Tony Bellew.

The 36-year-old only worked with McGuigan for three fights, but the pair have parted company on good terms after Haye was stopped in the 11th round by Bellew at The O2 in March.

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An Achilles injury hampered Haye during the defeat and surgery could mean he does not return to the ring until the end of the year.

A statement from Haye read: "Shane and I have come to the mutual decision that when I am ready to go back into full training camp, we will no longer be working together as boxer and coach.

"We remain good friends and will always metaphorically be in each other's corner, but both parties agreed moving forward we weren't right for each other.

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"I remain deepy indebted to Shane for playing a pivotal role in my comeback to date. I will be forever grateful for his hard work and tutelage. I would not be in the position I am now without this.

Image: David Haye was beaten by Tony Bellew in March

"I wish Shane, his stable of fighters and everyone at Cyclone Promotions the best of luck in the future - they are set to have an explosive few months."

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McGuigan recently steered George Groves to a world title at the fourth attempt, with the Londoner forcing a sixth round stoppage of Fedor Chudinov to claim the WBA 'super' super-middleweight title last Saturday.

Bellew remains open to a rematch with Haye, although he has also expressed an interest in challenging either WBO champion Joseph Parker or WBC title holder Deontay Wilder.

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Haye issued a positive bulletin on his condition in the same statement, adding: "I'm pleased to confirm rehabilitation is going well and I will make a complete recovery.

"Whilst I am not quite in a position to be announcing my next opponent, my passion for the sport remains unwavered and desire to regain my heavyweight title is stronger than ever."

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