Josh needs to wait for Carl clash

CARL FRAMPTON and Josh Warrington could meet in a huge fight in Manchester later this year.

But unfortunately Frampton’s August date will come too soon for the new IBF featherweight champion.

It is a great match-up and one we know the fans want to see.

That is down to the two men involved, who are not just great boxers but top guys who supporters have warmed to.

Warrington is coming off a tough night against Lee Selby and a hard training camp so it would be unfair to ask him to get straight back in the gym for a fight with Belfast star Frampton.

But Frampton will be in action in August and we are working on an opponent for that night.

Then Leeds man Warrington will defend his newly-acquired IBF title in September, most likely in his home city.

That should mean that both men are ready for a clash before 2018 is out.

Manchester Arena would probably be the best venue for the world-title fight as it’s neutral territory.

But we know both sets of fans would travel in huge numbers to make it a fantastic atmosphere.

It’s not often you get two fighters with massive fan bases meeting but these guys are a credit not only to ® Interview by

CHRIS McKENNA the sport, but also to their home cities.

Looking back on a special night last week at Elland Road, I’m so pleased Warrington proved my prediction right that he would come out on top against Selby.

He did everything right on the night and never let the Welshman take control amid a superb atmosphere at the home of Leeds United.

A lot of credit must go to his dad and trainer, Sean O’Hagan, who has led him to English, British, Commonwealth, European and now world titles.

But there is no credit for Canadian judge Alan Davis who somehow scored the fight in favour of Selby.

In football, referees are demoted after bad performances and it’s time boxing did the same with these judges.

And to the journalist who called me a cheerleader for backing my man, I call fights as I see them and not how I predict them like some.

I wanted to offer my deepest condolences to Alma and the Ingle family after the passing of legendary trainer and mentor Brendan.

Boxing has lost a legend and I will look back fondly on the many great moments we shared together in the sport. RIP my friend.