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‘La Sensación’ Martínez predicts sensational Frampton-Quigg clash

Kiko Martínez is better qualified than most to make a prediction on the upcoming Frampton-Quigg mega fight in Manchester.

The Spaniard has faced both The Jackal, twice, and England’s Quigg, losing on all three occasions.

Indeed Martínez is one of only four fighters, along with Yuriy Voronin, Gavin Reid, and Ryan Lindberg, to have faced both boxers in the ring

Back in 2013, Martínez was knocked out in the ninth round by Frampton for the European title. The Alicante fighter bounced back to win the IBF super bantamweight title and defended the strap twice before being widely outpointed in a rematch with Frampton at the Titanic Quarter.

Last year, Martínez attempted to win back a portion of the 122lb crown against Bury’s Quigg but was surprisingly knocked out in just the second round.

Ahead of the February 27th clash at the Manchester Arena, Martínez has given his thoughts on his two past opponents – and despite his quick defeat to Quigg, he believes that the Belfast boxer is the bigger puncher of the two.

Speaking to BoxingScene, the Spaniard revealed that “Frampton hits harder. Every time he hit me he hurt me”

“Quigg got me with a great punch, but he didn’t hit as hard as Frampton.”

Indeed, despite fiery build-ups and heated battles, Martínez and Frampton have forged a strong respect for each other, and the 29 year old was highly complementary of his boxing brother.

Additionally, Martínez is well respected on these shores having fought here a whopping seven times, and the Bernard Dunne conqueror continued:

“I don’t see any weaknesses in Frampton, he is complete.”

“He is strong, moves his legs very well, and he is a good counter puncher.”

Giving his prediction, the Iberian warrior believes that “Frampton will win, he is a better boxer than Quigg.”

Of course, February 27th is also an important date for the Spaniard who will attempt to win a second World title up at featherweight against Leo Santa Cruz at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, California – and he is sure to have the full support of the Irish boxing community for the bout.

Read Ben Jacob’s full interview with Kiko Martínez HERE.

Joe O'Neill

Reporting on Irish boxing the past five years. Work has appeared on irish-boxing.com, Boxing News, the42.ie, and local and national media. Provide live ringside updates, occasional interviews, and special features on the future of Irish boxing. email: joneill6@tcd.ie

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