I’m a Celeb keep me out of there – Frampton reveals reality TV knockbacks

Carl Frampton turned down offers to take part in popular reality TV shows Big Brother and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

‘The Jackal’, who takes on Nonito Donaire in Belfast this weekend, goes head to head with Amir Khan in a TV ratings war as Sky and BT broadcast fight nights simultaneously.

The stature of Frampton’s opponent and what is on the line should give the Belfast fighter the edge over Khan, who faces a ring rust shaking exercise.

However, some suggest the English puncher’s I am Celeb previous may aid him recruit more casual fans.

Indeed, there are some who suggest the former world champions appearance on the popular show actually opened up doors for him to return and fight in his home country after a period of trading leather in big fights in America.

It was a case of out of sight out of mind for the Olympic medalist, and his profile raising stint in the Jungle is said to have enabled him to top a bill against an unknown and still sell tickets.

Tickets have never been an issue for 31-year-old Frampton and he certainly has maintained a strong relationship with Belfast fight fans meaning he didn’t need the profile enhancing gimmick.

However, the fighter admits he may be tempted to partake once he hangs up his gloves.

Frampton said: “I was asked to do it. And I was asked to do Big Brother as well and I turned them both down.”

“Only because I’m a boxer and I’m still boxing. But maybe a few years time, if they ask me again I might change my mind.”

Frank Warren, who promotes this weekend’s Frampton-Donaire card, also admitted he had knocked back ITV’s approach to get him Down Under.

“I got asked to go in there. I told them my idea of a Bushtucker Trial is eating at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant, so you can leave me out of it.”