Frampton vs. Santa Cruz Rematch Likely in 2017, Says McGuigan

By Carlos Boogs

The rematch between WBA featherweight champion Carl Frampton and challenger Leo Santa Cruz is looking more likely to take place a date in the first quarter of 2017.

Back in July, Frampton (23-0, 14KOs) won a twelve round decision over Santa Cruz (32-1-1, 18KOs) to capture the WBA title at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

While there was some confusion at first, it was eventually agreed upon - by both sides - that a rematch clause existed.

Frampton was hoping to have the rematch on a date in December, so he could enjoy the holidays with his family.

According to his trainer, Shane McGuigan, the fight is not looking good to take place this year. He expects the rematch to get pushed back to 2017.

There are issued with securing a venue, as the year is closing down, and there are issues with securing a television date, also because the year is is coming to a close.

"I think it's looking more and more likely that it's going to be the Santa Cruz rematch [for Frampton's next fight]. I would have preferred it before the end of the year, but with everything going on... it's not a situation with me and my other fights. It's just a situation with TV, venues - all of those things are contributing factors. I think it's looking like it's going to be in 2017, next year, but hopefully we can get it signed and done," McGuigan told BoxingScene.com's Declan Taylor.  

One of the biggest sticking points in finalizing the second agreement - is the venue. Frampton has no problem with returning to the United States, but he refuses to face Santa Cruz in Los Angeles. He would prefer a neutral venue, like Las Vegas - and that may very well become the location, as promoter Tom Brown - who works with Al Haymon (adviser to Santa Cruz and Frampton) has reserved two dates in January (21 and 28) at Las Vegas' MGM Grand. The events are reportedly going to be televised on Showtime.