“We know each other now” – Moore promising improved Frampton following dress rehearsal

The dress rehearsal is done and Carl Frampton [24(14)-1(0)] is now ready to shine under the spotlight according to new trainer Jamie Moore.

Having made changes at management, promotional, and coaching level after a difficult period ‘The Jackal’ showed flashes of brilliance but ultimately endured a tough night against grizzled Mexican Horacio Garcia in November.

Frampton returns to elite World level next time out and is set to trade leather with future Hall of Fame fighter Nonito Donaire.

The former unified and two-weight World champ will have to improve on what was effectively a comeback win, against a four-weight world champion at the SSE Odyssey Arena on Saturday April 21st.

Moore has backed his man to do just that, and backed the fighter who has defeated the likes of Scott Quigg, Leo Santa Cruz, and Kiko Martinez to produce a career-best run of form.

“We’re in a better position now, the first fight was a bit of a dress rehearsal,” Moore told Boxnation, suggesting the pair have benefited from more time together.

“We know each other now,” stated the former Irish, British, Commonwealth, and European light middleweight champion who hails from Salford with Kilkenny roots.

“I just believe Carl Frampton is coming to the stage of his career now where he’s going to have the best performances. He’s got that Windsor Park, big venue – his dream as a kid. He’s got all those things to look forward to!”

Victory over The Filipino Flash would look likely to lead to a Windsor Park-hosted World title for the Belfast fighter who turned 31 last week.

BT Sports and Frank Warren seem intent on putting the winner of Lee Selby’s IBF title defence against Josh Warrington in May in with Frampton at the Belfast football stadium this Summer.

However, the Irish fight legend will first have to overcome Donaire and Moore warns that beating the veteran won’t prove easy.

The fighter-turned-pundit-turned-trainer has long analysed the South East Asian and anticipates a tough fight in just over seven weeks time.

“Donaire’s a dangerous fighter – let’s not beat around the bush. He’s a proven four-time World Champion, [and] can punch. He’s 35, probably seen better days, but he’s still a hell of a fighter so it’s a dangerous fight.”