McGuigan: Best of Frampton yet to come

Carl Frampton's manager Barry McGuigan claims the best is yet to come from the Belfast featherweight.

He'll fight Mexican Andres Gutierrez at the SSE Arena on the 29th of July, Frampton's first bout in Belfast since February 2015.

It also marks his return to the ring after his January defeat to Leo Santa Cruz at the MGM Grand in which he lost his WBA Super featherweight title.

"Carl has to be switched on, he has to be focused and he has to be in shape. And he will be - and he will put on the performance of his life."

"We're looking for a world title fight at the end of the year. Hopefully all of the other guys will have their fights out of the way, " said McGuigan.

McGuigan is also looking towards the end of the year, with his sights set on another world title shot for Frampton.

"Gary Russell is happy to talk about a defence, Selby has to fight Barrios, and Santa Cruz will fight Mares. So there are 3 potential world title fights in the fall."

With Frampton marking his return to his hometown, McGuigan believes the Belfast crowd can give him the edge.

"Carl fights better here. He simply fights better. It's something about the home support. He's emboldened by that, it fills him with strength and drive and desire, and I know he'll need all of those things against this kid."

Frampton has long spoken of his desire to fight at Windsor Park, but financial restraints and timing mean the bout must take place elsewhere. It's become a long-running problem with the Jackal, as he appears to have outgrown the available venues in Belfast.

"This'll be another great night of boxing - but it could also be the last time Carl Frampton fights in Belfast," said McGuigan.