‘When your under oath you should not lie’ – Paddy Barnes refutes Cyclone trial and grudge claims

Paddy Barnes this morning hit back at claims made during legal proceedings brought by Carl Frampton against his former manager Barry McGuigan.

The three time Olympian’s name came up at the High Court, when the former world champion’s son and Cyclone Promotions director, Blain McGuigan was giving evidence yesterday, Day 15 of proceedings.

The older of three brothers involved in former two weight world champion Frampton’s career pre the 2017 split for Cyclone, told the court Barnes held a grudge against Cyclone.

The 37-year-old surmised the decorated amateur, a close friend of Frampton, wasn’t fond of Cyclone due to the fact he had a trail with the promotional company and they elected against signing him.

Barnes took to social media to refute the comments. The two time Olympic medal winner claimed he never had a trial with any team or promotional outfit, not least Cyclone Promotions.

Speaking on Twitter Barnes said: “To the failed, wannabe rockstar, As a professional boxer I’ve never had a ‘trial’ with any coach or team, especially yours, when your under oath you should not lie.”

Blain McGuigan https://t.co/iQ2uJMubDr

— Paddy Barnes OLY (@paddyb_ireland) November 3, 2020

In the period building up to Frampton’s Cyclone split, Barnes had tentatively expressed concerns for his friend with regard to the workings of the promotional outfit.

Post Rio he firmly ruled them out as a promotional option as rumour grew he was going to turn over.

Carl Frampton is suing his former manager and fellow Irish boxing legend Barry McGuigan for withheld earnings of up to £6 million.

McGuigan has a separate counter claim for breach of contract, which will be heard in London.