Luke Wilton open to all-Belfast Barnes clash

Luke Wilton [16(7)-5(1)-1] has played down his ‘Paddy Barnes call out tweet’, but says he would fight the former Olympian if the price was right.

The former British and Commonwealth title challenger took to Twitter after the three time Olympian debuted on Saturday night to suggest an all-Belfast flyweight clash would be a good fight.

Speaking to Irish-Boxing.com this week, Wilton was quick to clarify that he wasn’t calling out ‘The Wee Man’ per-say, rather commenting that it would be a fight of interest.

However, ‘Winky’ did state he was open to a fight with Barnes [1(0)-0] and would take it if the money was right.

“That [tweet] was only a statement to say it would be a great fight,” explained Wilton.

“It was not like I called him out or anything. It was blown way out of proportion to be fair. A lot of people disrespected me as a result which isn’t on. If it comes about next year to fight Barnes It wouldn’t be a problem. It’s a good fight and if the money was right I would certainly take it.”

Wilton already has a common foe with Barnes, despite the former amateur standout being just one fight into his pro career. Winky holds a six-round points triumph and a second-round stoppage win over Stefan Slavchev, and agrees the fighter who was disqualified against Barnes is awkward opposition.

“I haven’t seen his fight to be honest, but I did fight that lad before. All he does is run and try to survive. He is awkward enough for anybody.”

The fight-anyone flyweight returns to the ring on the 26th of the month at the Short’s Sports and Social club in Belfast for what will be the first time since he lost to recent World title challenger Charlie Edwards on the Frampton v Quigg undercard in Manchester in February.

Wilton isn’t sure as of yet who his comeback foe will be, but is excited to be returning to ring action.

“The show is two weeks on Saturday and I am looking forward to it. I’m not 100% who the opponent is just yet. To be honest I don’t mind who I fight.”