Josh Warrington would fight Frampton again, but only once he earns world featherweight title

Josh Warrington (right) and Carl Frampton in action in the World Featherweight Championship at Manchester Arena in December 2018 Credit: Martin Rickett/PA Wire/PA Images

Josh Warrington would welcome a rematch with Carl Frampton but only if the Northern Irishman won a world featherweight title.

Warrington capped a breakout year by following up his surprise victory over Lee Selby last May, when he wrenched the IBF crown from the Welshman, by outpointing Frampton in December to retain his belt in another upset.

Defeat in a highly-entertaining bout left Frampton contemplating retirement but he decided to carry on and has his sights set on challenging WBO title holder Oscar Valdez after signing a co-promotional deal with Top Rank.

Warrington is intent on establishing a legacy within the 126lbs division so would only countenance a repeat of his punishing 12-round battle against Frampton if his rival were to win world honours again.

Josh Warrington celebrates winning the World Featherweight Championship against Carl Frampton at Manchester Arena. Credit: Martin Rickett/PA Wire/PA Images

"Maybe I should have got chinned then I would have got that opportunity," Warrington quipped when asked what he thought of the former two-weight world champion linking up with Top Rank.

"Good for Carl, I guess, good to see him going on. Hopefully he can get a big fight, get a world title and if he does then hopefully we can get a rematch down the line.

"I'd happily give him a rematch as long as he's got a world title."

Josh Warrington (left) and Kid Galahad in Leeds yesterday (19 March) Credit: Simon Cooper/PA Wire/PA Images

Before any potential unification bouts later this year, Warrington will take on mandatory challenger and fellow Yorkshireman Kid Galahad on June 15 at the Leeds Arena.

Warrington beat Galahad twice when they were in the amateur ranks and is convinced the Sheffield fighter is still stung by the pair of losses.