Carl Frampton assured of hero's welcome in Belfast

By defeating the strongly fancied WBA featherweight title holder Leo Santa Cruz in Brooklyn, the north Belfast man became the first fighter from Northern Ireland to win world titles at two different weights.

First Minister Arlene Foster led the local tributes as news of Frampton’s arrival in the big time spread around the world.

“I’m just so pleased for him. He really is a lovely guy,” she said.

“From our point of view in the Assembly, we will want to recognise the achievement because he is a world champion, and I think it is absolutely right that we recognise it as such.”

Commenting on the prospect of Frampton defending his title in Belfast, Mrs Foster told the BBC’s Nolan Show: “When he was down at the Titanic [claiming the IBF super-bantamweight title from Kiko Martinez] that was a wonderful evening for Belfast. I really hope that we can work with him and Barry [McGuigan] and the team to bring him to Belfast.

“But we do have to recognise that he is a world star now.”

Belfast councillor Jim Rodgers said he was delighted with Frampton’s “fantastic achievement” in beating the tough Mexican, but said that in financially tough times it was important not to aim too high and set a precedent.

“We have got to recognise him in some fashion ... but all of these things cost money. The Lord Mayor, through his budget, could host something in the Lord Mayor’s parlour, and that’s probably more appropriate than talking about anything really big.”

In defeat, Santa Cruz paid tribute to Frampton on Twitter. He said: “Nothing but respect for @RealCFrampton. He’s a true champ & gave me one hell of a fight. Would love to do it again.”

In reply, the Belfast fighter said: “Thank you Leo. Nothing but respect for you and your family also. These fights are good for our sport.”

Many of Frampton’s high-profile fans have also shown their support. As well as having golfer Rory McIlroy at ringside, Northern Ireland and Leeds United star Stuart Dallas tweeted, “What a guy. An inspiration to us all God bless you champ,” while his fellow international Michael McGovern said: “Yes @RealCFrampton!!! Doing our wee country proud once again. Superb.”

Following his victory, the new champion revealed that jockey Tony McCoy, Irish rugby international Tommy Bowe, Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill and Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill were among those who sent their congratulations.

Showtime Boxing said the high-octane encounter was a classic.

“In the Fight of the Year candidate, Leo Santa Cruz and Carl Frampton combined threw over 1,600 punches landing 497 with a staggering 402 power shots.”