Hero’s welcome for Carl Frampton

Thousands turned out in Belfast this evening to give Carl Frampton the hero’s welcome he deserved.

Frampton became only the second Irish fighter and the first from Northern Ireland to win World titles at two weights when he defeated Leo Santa Cruz in New York on July 30.

Supporters turned out in large numbers to celebrate ‘The Jackal’s’ win and catch a glimpse of his new WBA featherweight World title.

Speaking at the event Frampton

He told his fans he was overwhelmed by the support he has received and said “I love Belfast and want to fight here as much as possible.”

“This is the first time I’ve tried to get out among the people – to see the support they have for me is absolutely fantastic,” he added before suggesting what he would like to do next.

“I want to have Christmas off to spend time with Christine and the kids,” he said.

“I’m ready to fight big names – I want all fights to be big fights. I want to fight in Belfast more often, more than I have been recently.

“But now I’m the champion again, we can bring the big boys to Belfast.”

First Minister Arlene Foster, who was at City Hall.

“We’re all so proud of Carl Frampton, he embodies everything that is good about Northern Ireland, he inspires young people as well,” she added.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Brian Kingston said

“He is a tremendous ambassador for us. Not just in what he has achieved, but how he handles himself, his whole character and he’s very proud of where he comes from.”