By Jonny Stapleton

CARL Frampton admits fight fans may not give the credit deserves if he beats the little know Raul Hirales this Saturday night, but is content knowing  victory will see him recognised as a world top ten fighter by the IBF.

Mexican, Hirales, who competes with Frampton for the IBF Inter Continental title in Nottingham , is unknown to Irish, British and European fight fans and there is a danger some fans might be ignorant to his talent and the danger he possesses.

The Jackal certainly could have got more fan kudos if he had fought a recognised name like Jamie Arthur or Jason Booth, but he knows defeating two veterans past their best would only prompt false flattery.

The Belfast fighter wants a test and the undefeated Hirales will provide the toughest of his career. The 16-0 fighter also grants the Commonwealth champion world top 10 access and will enable him to progress his career without the need for Rendall Munroe or Scott Quigg- two fighters Barry McGuigan’s protégé feels are avoiding him.

Ask if fighting Hirales is risk that could have been avoided considering the likes of Jamie Arthur might have attracted more attention and therefore respect, Frampton responding intelligently stressing he didn’t want to fool himself or the fans.

“I can understand the point you are making. I understand people don’t know this guy, but in all fairness to Jamie Arthur, Hirales is a much better fighter. You can say he is my toughest test to date. Hirales gives me the opportunity to progress. He is undefeated and has beaten three undefeated guys. He is coming here to win and fight and people will see how good he is on the night. He is a tough Mexican maybe a little different than others because he stayed in the amateur game so long. He is ranked in the top ten so a win over him will really push me up the rankings,” Frampton told www.irish-boxing.com.

Hirales might not be deemed a named draw this side of the Atlantic, but Stateside an unbeaten Mexican is always respected, something that obviously didn’t go unnoticed Team Frampton.

The Belfast star’s bout, which is chief support to Carl Froch and Lucian Bute’s monster world title clash, will be aired Stateside and in 20 countries around the world. A good display and the name Frampton will be know and remembered further a field.

“This is a big opportunity for me. I fight on a massive card and the fight will be screened world wide. I have a chance to impress and I am working hard to ensure I do.”

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