On 26 October 2011, Gamboa hired world-famous Emanuel Steward as his head trainer. Gamboa was initially set to return in April 2012 against lightweight champion Brandon Rios, but he pulled out of the bout citing problems with his contract with Top Rank. After a long dispute between Gamboa and Top Rank, the two sides agreed to part ways, with Gamboa's contract being bought out for a flat fee. In July 2012, Gamboa signed a promotional contract with 50 Cent and Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s promotional company, "The Money Team Promotions".