Promoter open to having Frampton v Santa Cruz III in Belfast

As per usual, Léo Santa Cruz [33(18)-1(0)-1] diverted all future decisions to his management team.

“I would rematch him and I am a man of my word so I would go to Belfast, but the team make the decisions,” was the line trotted out by the Mexican-American after he claimed revenge against Carl Frampton [23(14)-1(0)].

It’s the kind of line Frampton fans are used to hearing from ‘El Terremoto.’ who regained the WBA featherweight following the tense Las Vegas repeat in the early hours of Sunday morning (Irish time).

After leveling proceedings with a brilliant disciplined performance, loud chatter regarding of Frampton v Santa Cruz III was inevitable, drowning out the noise of the slot machines on the strip in Sin City.

Both fighters seemed keen, as did their teams. Even PBC boss Al Haymon is on board..

However, there are those who doubt that Frampton’s wish to have the next installment of the trilogy in Belfast will be granted.

The Belfast fight fans invaded Las Vegas and showed a tiny glimpse of what a brilliant atmosphere would be created for TV, but most commentators suggest that money will talk and America will remain the more lucrative place to host the rubber match.

However, Santa Cruz’s experienced promoter Richard Schaefer claims he is open to coming to Belfast and suggests he would look forward to a stadium fight.

“I don’t mind coming to Belfast for the fight. I promoted Ricky Hatton’s fight at the Manchester City football stadium so I’ve no problem with that but we have to see what is ultimately the best for both fighters,” Schaefer told the Belfast Telegraph.

“They have put us as fans first and now we need to see what is best for them but Leo is clear that he is open to fighting in Belfast.”

Good news it seems, however the promoter isn’t sure whether or not it would be best to do number three straight away.

“As much as we as fight fans like the idea of a third fight, these are two young men, two great warriors who have had 24 vicious rounds of boxing and they may need to take another fight before they meet again, I’m not sure.”

“There is no question that the fight will happen because that’s the kind of guy Léo is. It could happen straight away but you have to take a step back and see is it possible to have another fight and then do it.”