Belfast’s Barnes gets title shot on Frampton undercard

Belfast boxer Paddy Barnes is set to challenge for a world title for the first time, on the undercard of Carl Frampton’s title defence at Windsor Park.

Frampton will be putting his WBO interim featherweight belt on the line when he takes on Australian fighter Luke Jackson on 18 August.

Meanwhile, Barnes - in only his sixth professional bout - will take on Nicaraguan WBC flyweight champion Cristopher Rosales.

Barnes told the official website of his management team MTK Global: “I’m extremely excited.

“I’ve been boxing for 20 years and I made history by becoming a two-time Olympic medallist. Now I can become a world champion early in my pro career and make more history.”

He added: “As for Rosales, he’s on a knockout streak so I know he can punch, but he’s also a very good boxer. I think our styles will gel perfectly and the fans are in for a real war.

“He’s only lost three times to high-class opponents like Kal Yafai and Andrew Selby. Yafai out-muscled him and Selby out-boxed him. I’m hoping I can do a bit of both.”

For Frampton, he may be facing an underdog in 33-year-old Jackson, but he has learned the hard way not to underestimate anyone.

“The last time people were saying a fighter didn’t pose a threat to me was against Alejandro González Jr and I ended up on my backside twice in the first round. It was the first time I’d been down in my career,” the Jackal said.

“Luke Jackson is an undefeated fighter and former Olympian with a very decent pedigree. He comes with a lot to gain if he beats me. He’s highly ranked with the WBO and I expect a tough fight.”

Promoter Frank Warren has also revealed that former WBO, WBA and IBF heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will also continue his comeback on the undercard in Belfast.