The Facts: Carl Frampton vs Kiko Martinez
BoxNation’s first big fight of the new season will take place at Belfast’s Titanic Quarter in a purpose built temporary arena holding 16,000. That means the 12 rounder has attracted the biggest ever live boxing gate in Northern Ireland.
Respected boxing writer Steve Lillis complied the following facts for Boxnation ahead of the coming clash:
When Frampton stopped Martinez in February 2013 he successfully defended his IBF intercontinental super-bantamweight title and claimed the Spaniard’s European championship.
Frampton, who stands 5ft 5in, will have a two inch height advantage
Although shorter, Martinez won’t be conceding reach. He claims a 66in reach compared to Frampton’s 62in.
Defending champion, Martinez has more experience having turned professional more than ten years ago. Frampton didn’t make his professional debut until June 2009, when the Spaniard had already been European champion.
Martinez has won 31 of his 35 contests, while Frampton is unbeaten in all 18 paid bouts.
Kiko has knocked out 32 of his opponents, and 13 of Frampton’s opponents have made the final bell. He has an inside the distance win percentage ratio of 72.22. Martinez’s 65.71% is also impressive reading.
Their only common opponent is Venezuelan journeyman, Oscar Chacin. Martinez outpointed Chacin over six rounds in February 2011. Two weeks later Frampton stopped the South American in four rounds.
Saturday will be the 15th championship fight Martinez has had. It will be the tenth title tussle for Frampton who first pro crown was Celtic title back in 2010. Martinez captured his first title taking the EBU-EU title back in March 2006.
The 185 acre venue gets its name because it is where RMS Titanic was designed and built. There are also film studios there and welcomed international productions including ‘Game of Thrones’, ‘Your Highness’ and ‘City of Ember’.
