Frampton wins in Cardiff

5 June 2011 – Jonny Stapleton

Carl Frampton proved he has substance to back his much touted style as he retained his Celtic title and secured a coveted British title shot with victory over the tough Robbie Turley in Cardiff on Saturday.

Barry McGuigans protg endured the toughest fight of his career to date against an awkward and durable opponent, but showed grit, determination and maturity to register his tenth pro victory. The Jackal had to deal with a cut just over the eye, a point deduction for landing after the bell and the brave Turleys granite chin on what a very entertaining Sky debut for the Belfast man. However, despite being pushed Frampton never looked like he was going to do anything but win the bout comfortably. The undefeated prospect, who dropped his opponent temporarily in the eighth, lit up every round with flashes of brilliance and Turley proved more a test of the prospects resolve than his talent.

Legendary coach Gerry Storey was delighted with his charge’s mature display, but was also happy with how Turley performed. Storey was happy Frampton got ten rounds under his belt and learnt you have to out box rather than knock some opponents out.

We knew Turley was going to be tough. He is very awkward and brave. Believe it or not I was delighted with Carls performance. He put in ten terrific and tough rounds against a tough opponent. It was a learning fight from beginning to end, Storey told Mirror Sport after the bout.

When he followed instructions he looked a level above. Carl outclassed the lad but he wanted to punch him at times. I was happy he got taken the distance. He had to use his skill to win and he will learn from that. Turley is tall for the weight and he took some shots. We had seen him before and we expected that. We were worried about him we knew he was a good fighter. He was in fifth gear from the first round and I was delighted he showed Carl what it is like to go ten rounds. He was a great entertaining fight, Storey added before commenting on the cut.

“He was tall, and we seen him use the head a little bit before. That happens in boxing. Lets hope Carl doesnt get cut again but you have to deal with cuts when the come and can’t let them affect you to much. Thats the nature of the contest. Storey stressed banking that fight will reap British title dividends and backed Frampton to go on and take domestic honours by the end of the year, however told Mirror Sport he isn’t sure if the Belfast star will get a warm up bout in between.