Carl Froch believes there is more to come from talented Carl Frampton

Belfast fighter Frampton saw off Quigg on a split decision to retain his IBF world title - while getting his hands on Quigg’s WBA belt.

Froch says Frampton was the winner from the very first bell.

“Forget the scoring, Carl Frampton was pretty comfortable cruising to a win on what was a massive, massive night for him.

“It was a shame things didn’t really get going until the last third of the fight but before that if anyone was trying to initiate something, it was always Frampton.

“He looked like he knew what he was doing and where he was at all night long, and he just seemed ready to step on the gas if he had to.

“He did seem to tire in the ninth, 10th and 11th rounds but when we expected Quigg to really come out firing in the 12th, Frampton still took control from the start of the round,” he added,

And Froch - who was involved in many wars during his career - says Frampton showed a champions heart by turning it on in the final round.

“That final round was a classic example of just what Frampton has in his locker.

“He is a clever fighter and has such a natural talent that it was obvious he was going to be given the decision.

“Yes, the rounds were close. Yes, it went to a split decision and yes, when I counted up my scores it was a draw, but I think most people in the Manchester Arena had Frampton winning.

“I am clearly not biased, even though I am a big Barry McGuigan fan and he’s a friend of mine.

“ Quigg did really well - especially in the later stages - but even when I added up my card and it came out as a draw, it was irrelevant. I always had Frampton composed, calm and ahead.”

Froch believes Frampton has a big future ahead of him as he looks to fight the likes of WBC Featherweight World champion Leo Sanat Cruz in the next few months.

“Once or twice he got caught up in an exchange, especially in those last three rounds - but his class and qualty got him through.

“It’s easy to say but I know plenty of people picked Frampton before the fight and as good as Quigg is, we saw why.

“It was a great win and he did what he had to do - to wn the fight,” he added.