Frampton denied chance to fight champ

Published Thursday, 16 August 2012

Belfast boxer Carl Frampton has told UTV he doesn't think he'll ever get to fight Kiko Martinez for the Spaniard's European title, after a scheduled bout between the pair was pulled again.

Carl Frampton and Kiko Martinez, who has pulled out of their planned bout. (© Pacemaker)

Martinez ruled himself out of the fight at the Odyssey Arena with over a month to go, leaving his would-be opponent sceptical of his intention to put his European super bantamweight title on the line.

"Martinez says he has an arm injury, but those can heal. I gave him the benefit of the doubt the last time he said he was injured." Frampton told UTV.

"Quite honestly, I don't think I'll ever get the chance to fight him."

Frampton will now defend his IBF Inter-Continental and Commonwealth titles against Canadian two-time world champion Steve Molitor.

"In some ways, it might be a blessing because, if anything, Molitor will be an equally tough opponent," Frampton added.

The Frampton v Molitor bout will be held at the Odyssey on 22 September.