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A few months on since that raucous September night when Carl “The Jackal” Frampton claimed a career-defining victory against the tough Spaniard, Kiko Martinez, the Belfast boy returns to action as he prepares for his upcoming defense against the outspoken American, Chris Avalos.
Curiously billed “The World Is Not Enough,” Frampton and Avalos are due to square off on February 28, 2015 at the renowned Odyssey Arena in Frampton’s hometown.
As expected, the Belfast crowd were out in their masses to catch a glimpse of their IBF Super Bantamweight champion at the press conference on Thursday, but they were also there to witness the man who will be vying for supremacy when the two lock horns. Speaking to the media and fans who had gathered at the Europa Hotel, Frampton was his usual confident self as he declared his intentions when fight night arrives.
“I can guarantee that I am going to beat Chris Avalos convincingly,” said a relaxed Frampton. “He’s a good fighter, with a good knockout percentage but he’s been beaten twice and still hasn’t fought anyone as good as me. That is going to be the difference on the night.”
Nevertheless, the 25-2 Avalos obviously disagrees with The Jackal’s statements and was just as self-assured that it will in fact be an easy victory for him, bringing that world title back across the Atlantic.
“Come February 28th, I am going to win and it will be by knockout!” – Chris Avalos
Both fighters bickered back and forth for the duration of the press conference, which has already added some fuel to an already interesting fire.
The fight itself was expected to take place within 90 days of Frampton’s win against Martinez back in September, but due to a hand injury, the 27-year-old Frampton was granted an extension, therefore both men should be primed and ready for action when the opening bell sounds.
The February 28 show will undoubtedly showcase Ireland’s brightest and best from both the north and south of the Island, with talents like Marco McCullough, Conrad Cummings, Jamie Conlan and many more likely competing on a big night of Irish boxing.
In the main event though, it is team Frampton who have arrived at the pinnacle and are ready to rule at a flourishing 122-pound division. So can Chris Avalos halt the meteoric rise of the reigning IBF champion and dethrone a clearly determined Jackal?
Well, the California native may have all the faith in the world that he has the ability to overthrow Frampton however, in the end, the world may not be enough to overcome this mammoth challenge facing him.
Tickets for The World Is Not Enough go on sale 19th December through www.ticketmaster.ie . Alternatively call Ticketmaster on 0844 277 4455 or the Odyssey Arena Box Office on 02890 739074. Prices – £45, £75, £125 for VIP and ringside tickets 0845 900 3765 or email info@cyclonepromotions.com
