Carl Frampton was every part the “jackal” in defeating Kiko Martinez by unanimous decision in front of a raucous hometown crowd in Belfast. Frampton took Martinez’s title with scores of 119-108 on two cards and 118-111 on the third.
Although Martinez was game and had a few moments throughout the bout, Frampton was simply too much in every aspect. He was the faster fighter, landed the harder shots, worked the body more efficiently, and was more proficient in his movements ensuring success in all of the aforementioned areas.
The fifth round was one of the more eventful rounds. Both fighters came out with increased aggression to start the fifth after the referee informed both corners that he had ruled that an accidental headbutt had occurred in the fourth. Martinez had a cut over his left eye which may have worsened or was a result of the clash of heads. While both combatants looked to land their punches, Frampton slipped and fell to both knees. Martinez looked to capitalize on his downed opponent by throwing a punch and skimming the back of his head which prompted a stern warning by the referee. As the action continued, Martinez moved forward in an attempt to impose his will. During an exchange, Martinez failed to keep his left guard up and was caught by an overhand counter right by Frampton which dropped him to the canvas. He was not overly hurt by the shot and was able to survive the round.
So what’s next for the new titlist? Maybe the Scott Quigg fight can be sorted out and made, assuming Quigg wins his fight next weekend. If not, there are plenty of options such as Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Guillermo Rigondeaux, and Abner Mares. Actually, I could keep going so maybe we can just set up a bracket and go from there? It looks like this division is in for a sustained run.
Congrats Champ, well done. With apologies to Peter Frampton, another Frampton “comes alive”.
Standing-8 