What time is Carl Frampton's ring walk tonight? TV coverage and more ahead of Luke Jackson fight
The Jackal's dream becomes a reality in Belfast
Last updated 18th Aug 2018
Carl Frampton will relish a career-long dream when he defends his WBO Interim World Featherweight Title against Luke Jackson at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park later.
WATCH THE FULL PRESS CONFERENCE:
Speaking at his pre-fight press conference Frampton said it will be a treasured moment for him;
"This is a dream for me and it is something I have talked about for a long time. You never know what happens in this game, it could be the one and only time I get to fight at Windsor Park."
"It is going to be a special occasion for myself and my family. For the people who are going to come and watch it there is going to be a top quality undercard as well and I think it will be a night to remember for Belfast".
Who is Luke Jackson?
The 33-year-old from Tasmania in Australia (16-0) 7 KO's, is the holder of the WBO Oriental Title, having previously held the WBA Oceania belt. He also captained the Australian boxing team at the 2012 London Olympics and won Commonwealth Games bronze in 2006.
Who is on the undercard?
Paddy Barnes will challenge for the WBC World Flyweight title as he faces world champion Cristofer Rosales (27-3) 18 KO's. Barnes says he is expecting a tough test.
"Rosales is good at what he does, but I feel I have the skill to outfight and outbox him. It will be a very, very hard fight though."
"People will talk about me fighting for a world title after just six fights, but I don't view it as a gamble because of my history as an amateur."
Former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury returns with a bout against Francesco Pianeta as he closes in on a huge fight with Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas.
The bill also includes a light-heavyweight clash between Belfast’s Ward and Dubliner Steve Collins Jr. Also in action is WBO European middleweight champion Luke Keeler, Cummings, KO king Lewis Crocker, Marco McCullough, Sean McComb and Steven Donnelly.
How can I watch it on TV?
Coverage will begin straight after the Premier League local derby between Chelsea and Arsenal live on BT Sport 1. Coverage of the big fight night will begin at 7:45pm.
Paddy Barnes vs Cristofer Rosales will start televised proceedings.
“This is a massive bonus for Paddy fighting straight after the Arsenal-Chelsea match, it means there will be an even bigger audience tuning in to watch him for his big world title fight.” said boxing promotor Frank Warren; who also had a message for the fans heading to Windsor Park on August 18th:
Get yourself in the stadium nice and early, grab a drink and enjoy an excellent night of world class boxing. Let’s hope it will stay nice and dry for everyone!”.
What time are the ring walks expected to take place?
Paddy Barnes vs Cristofer Rosales - 7:50pm
Tyson Fury vs Francesco Pianeta - 8:50pm
The ring walk for the main Frampton fight - 10.00pm
What's the weather going to be like for the fight?
Unfortunately not good, you might need to pack a raincoat.
According to the Met Office, daytime Saturday will be bright - but there is a chance of heavy rain in the evening from the remnants of Sub Tropical Storm Ernesto.
Fingers crossed the rain will hold off until after the main Frampton fight.
What items are banned from taking into the stadium?
Backpacks, holdalls, luggage, oversized bags and cushions (bags larger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm will not be permitted).
Other items that are not permitted include:
Team sports shirts, apparel, scarves and insignia of any kind. Sectarian regalia. Glass, cans, aluminium bottles or thermos flasks of any kind including liquid products which can be consumed. Any explosives or combustible materials. Flammable liquids of any kind in any container. Laser pens/pointers. Video cameras and professional cameras (unless accredited media). Laptop computers, iPads and Go Pros. Large/golf umbrellas. Knives or weapons of any kind, or anything that could be used as a weapon. Illegal drugs or substances. Alcoholic beverages. Signs, banners or flags on poles, staffs or selfie sticks. Animals (except service animals to aid persons with disabilities). Air horns, whistles, cowbells, drums or other noise-making distractions. Projectiles (Frisbees, beach balls, footballs etc). Aerosol cans (hairspray, deodorant etc). Fireworks, confetti or glitter bombs or sprays. Balloons. Use of wheeled footwear, skateboards, roller skates. Food. Masks and helmets. Large studs and chains (studded belts and straps etc).
Expect to be searched and allow time extra time to access the stadium where possible.