In a bid to secure a third fight against Leo Santa Cruz back home in Belfast, Carl Frampton has even jokingly told the Mexican he can stay at his house. At the post-fight press conference, the Jackal offered his congratulations to the new WBA world super featherweight champion.
But, turning his attention to yet another possible showdown, Frampton added: “I’ve come to the States twice now and Léo has said that he would do it in Belfast a third time. I hope he’s a man of his word.”
Starting to laugh, he added: “He can stay at my house if he wants.”
On Saturday night, Santa Cruz unseated Frampton on Saturday night by way of a twelve round majority decision at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Last July atthe Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Frampton decisioned Santa Cruz - also by majority decision - to initially capture the WBA title.
While Santa Cruz said Belfast may not be "convenient", he insisted he is indeed a man of his word.
However, the title holder did add that the decision was not entirely his. He would have to speak with his promoter, which at the moment appears to be Richard Schaefer of Ringstar Sports. And he would have to speak with his manager, who is Al Haymon. Frampton is also advised by Haymon.
“I respect Carl Frampton and, if it was up to me, I would go up there and fight him,” Santa Cruz said.
“But it’s not just up to me - it’s up to my promoter and my manager.”
