Carl Frampton to face Luke Jackson at Belfast's Windsor Park
Monday 18 June 2018 13:42, UK
Carl Frampton will get his dream fight at Belfast's Windsor Park when he takes on Luke Jackson on August 18.
Frampton, a two-weight world champion, is currently the interim WBO ruler and victory over Australian Jackson (16-0) could see the Northern Irishman challenge full champion Oscar Valdez thereafter.
Tyson Fury will also feature at the home of Linfield FC as he continues his comeback from a two-and-a-half year hiatus from the sport, while popular flyweight Paddy Barnes will challenge for Cristofer Rosales' WBC world title in just his sixth pro fight.
Speaking about his dream clash at Windsor Park, 'The Jackal' Frampton said: "Jackson is an undefeated fighter and former Olympian with a very decent pedigree. He comes with a lot to gain if he beats me. He's highly ranked with the WBO and I expect a tough fight.
"Jackson has had plenty of notice to get himself into the best shape of his life and he's entitled to put on a great performance. It's up to me to better his performance and that's what I'm going to do - Windsor Park deserves it. I want to do a proper job.
"The thing is - like most other featherweights, Jackson won't have experienced an atmosphere like Belfast can create. I'm used to boxing at the SSE Arena in Belfast and it's intense. It's got to be hard for an opponent to deal with.
"It's hard enough in front of 9,000 at the SSE Arena so just think how tough it's going to be to fight against a hometown boy at Windsor Park. It's going to be so tough. It might make him fold or it might gee him up but one thing's for sure - it won't be easy for him.
"I'm professional enough to avoid getting carried away with the atmosphere. I've learned a lot. I've dealt with big atmospheres and high expectations before. I'll rise to the occasion of stepping out in the stadium and realising a dream."
