Frampton vs Martinez confirmed 9th February

Not sure if this posted already so apologies if it has been.

Carl Frampton will clash with European champion Kiko Martinez in Belfast on February 9, live on Sky Sports.

The Northern Irishman, who has twice seen fights with the Spaniard called off previously, will put his IBF inter-continental strap on the line in a bill labelled 'Unfinished Business'.

And after beating late stand-in Steve Molitor in September, Frampton says the extra time will help in his efforts to beat the 26-year-old Martinez, who has a new promoter in namesake Sergio, the WBC middleweight champion.

"He's pulled out on me twice so I have a score to settle with him there," said Frampton. "It's a great fight for the fans and one that I have craved for a long time.

"I had too much for Steve Molitor and he was a step-up, so I am confident I can beat Kiko and do so in style.

"Martinez pulling out in September was a blessing in disguise really as I have been able to mature and learn even more and on February in front of another packed crowd at home, I'm looking to make another statement ahead at the start of a big year."

The fight will headline a massive night of boxing in Belfast as Martin Lindsay faces Lee Selby for the British and Commonwealth featherweight titles, a hotly anticipated fight that was cancelled at the 11th hour on the Frampton-Molitor undercard when Selby fell ill.

"I am delighted that Carl and Kiko will finally fight," said promoter Eddie Hearn. "It has been a long time coming but it is a great fight and one that we felt had to happen for Carl.

"Kiko has settled well with Sergio, who is a great fighter and a great man and I think this is going to kick-off another big year for Carl in Belfast in style.

"Lee pulling out ill last time we were in Belfast was unfortunate but these things happen in boxing and they cannot be helped.

"Their fight was one of the most eagerly awaited bouts of 2012 when we announced it and I am sure it will live up to its billing."

Frampton's manager Barry McGuigan added: "We're pleased this fight is going to happen. I've always said that Kiko is a danger from first bell to last and I believe it's a harder fight than Molitor.

"Styles make fights and this one is going to be a barn-burner, and the team is confident that Carl will win, and win in style."

Martinez is well known to UK fight fans following two memorable fights with Rendall Munroe - both of which he lost on points.

"One of the most eagerly awaited bouts........"

Some undemanding people out there......

Not sure Frampton can learn much more......With his style he's ready now....Just as mcguigan was!!

Win a portion of pie..turn the heating up to 110 degrees in the King's hall (like Mcguigan-Taylor)..

Then make it so intimidating in there the opponent just wants to escape with his life!!! (forget the belt)

and reign for 5 years.....

pS..Don't go to Vegas in June!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brilliant Truss

Good fight, more tough matching, cannot wait. Unification with Quigg next.

Just a pity he's in the toughest decision in the world right now. Fingers crossed Donaire, Rigo etc move up soon!

Don't you want him fighting the best eventually!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some boxing fan you are....

I was going to say Truss!

Id rather have Frampton beat Kiko, take out a domestic rival in Quigg to see who actually "IS" the best, then go on to world honours.

Having such a depth in class in the division can only spur fighters on to beat them.

Im sure Carl would rather fight Rigo/Donaire etc then make fights with Munroe or fringe contenders at world level.

Its like Khan wanting Mayweather/Pacquiao/Marquez/Ortiz/Alexander/Brook etc etc to move out of the division.

No chance. Bring on the best and test yourself.

Agree, it's just I like the guy and think in many other divisions/years he'd be good enough for world champ. But here and now Donaire and Rigo would make a mockery of him.

mobilemaster8 wrote:I was going to say Truss!

Id rather have Frampton beat Kiko, take out a domestic rival in Quigg to see who actually "IS" the best, then go on to world honours.

Having such a depth in class in the division can only spur fighters on to beat them.

Im sure Carl would rather fight Rigo/Donaire etc then make fights with Munroe or fringe contenders at world level.

Its like Khan wanting Mayweather/Pacquiao/Marquez/Ortiz/Alexander/Brook etc etc to move out of the division.

No chance. Bring on the best and test yourself.

Munroe announced his retirement today.

Sorry here's the link for Munroe retirement

http://www1.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/8329405/Rendall-Munroe-opts-to-retire-after-going-down-to-defeat-by-Scott-Quigg

He's a silly boy......He can't be financially secure yet...

He has the skill to win a prizefighter and some domestic honors......once Quigg and Frampton move on..

Make your money now kid...too late in five years time...

TRUSSMAN66 wrote:He's a silly boy......He can't be financially secure yet...

He has the skill to win a prizefighter and some domestic honors......once Quigg and Frampton move on..

Make your money now kid...too late in five years time...

He's got a rather lucrative day job Truss.