Underdog Frampton – the pressure is on Santa Cruz

Carl Frampton is loving being the underdog for his New York clash with Leo Santa Cruz.

The Jackal has already spoke about how his outsider status will allow his followers to win more money at the bookies – something which hasn’t happened since 2009.

The Belfast man yesterday though explained a potentially much more crucial benefit of being the underdog on Saturday night at the Barclays Centre.

Speaking to media at an open workout, Frampton stated that “all the pressure is on Santa Cruz.”

“Everyone is expecting him to win. I’m going to come in there and upset him.”

“I’m here to put on a great performance and bring the belt back home.”

“I’m going to look to put on a world-class performance. It will take my best to get this victory.”

Santa Cruz also spoke at the event, and sought to dispel the popular opinion that positions him as favourite. ‘El Terremoto’ argued that “people think Frampton is the underdog because he’s moving up in weight. But I moved up in weight too.”

“I never take an opponent lightly. I’m going to come really hungry.”

“I respect every fighter and I train for my opponent to be at his best.”