CARL Frampton has never backed away from a challenge in his life, but admits he wouldn’t fancy his chances against Ukrainian sensation Vasyl Lomachenko.
One of the best amateurs to ever lace up gloves, Lomachenko has carried that form into the pro ranks, winning a world title in just his third fight and producing some sparkling performances that have taken the boxing world by storm.
The 29-year-old looked at his imperious best in successfully defending his WBO super-featherweight title against Jason Sosa, with Frampton one of those watching on in awe.
‘The Jackal’ has spoken about the possibility of making the move up to super-feather at some time in the future, sparking talk of a potential match-up with Lomachenko.
But Frampton feels the 2008 and 2012 Olympic gold medallist is in a league of his own.
“Right, I’ll tell you about Lomachenko – he is an unbelievable fighter,” said the Tigers Bay fighter.
“I would fight anyone in and around my weight division. You have to be paid and rewarded for this game. People may say ‘what about Rigo [Guillermo Rigondeaux]’ or whatever but there’s no money in a Rigo fight or I would fight him.
“I would fight Lomachenko – hand on heart, I wouldn’t win, but I’d have a go. He’s amazing, he’s got a unique style… he’s just an amazing talent.
“I don’t think you’d have to go up to maybe welterweight before you’d get anybody anywhere in the world who would beat him.”
Frampton is expected to box in Belfast this summer after taking the show on the road for his last four fights.
No opponent has been confirmed yet though and, with the likes of Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares and Lee Selby seemingly out of the picture for the short term at least, fight fans have speculated about who might be next for ‘The Jackal’.
Scott Quigg is one name that has been mentioned in despatches for a potential rematch in July or August, but Frampton insists there is “absolutely no chance”.
“That’s one thing I can rule out,” he said.
“He’s only fought one name and that was me, and he lost, so he needs to string a few wins together and then we can talk about that.
“But at this point in time he’s not on my radar.”
