Carl Frampton suffered his first Professional loss as he lost his WBA Featherweight title to Leo Santa Cruz via a majority decision in the Mexican's favour.
The first judge scored the fight a draw while the other two scored it 115-113 to Santa Cruz.
After the fight, Frampton (23-1, 14 KO) was honest about how the rematch went saying "Leo probably deserved it. It was my fault and I want to apologise to the travelling fans," "I hope we can do it again - we need to do it again."
Frampton added he wants the third fight to take place in Belfast, as was discussed for the rematch.
Santa Cruz (33-1-1, 18 KO) worked Frampton's left eye with frequent and deadly jabs whenever the Irishman looked to land bodyshots.
Cruz said after the fight "He is a great fighter and a great counter-puncher. "It was tough to change my style. In my head I wanted to go for it, but I was told to box him and that's what I did" "I am a man of my word. Let's go again."
On BBC Radio 5 Live, former WBA and IBF Lightweight Champion Amir Khan said that it was a great display of Boxing from the pair.
"It was always going to be close because they have styles that suit each other. They've both got great boxing skills. One's a fighter, one's a boxer but then they have to change their skillset and gameplan a bit which makes it tough."
Frampton vs Santa Cruz was a good fight. Both put it all on the line, very close. Let's see #3— Chris Eubank Jr (@ChrisEubankJr) January 29, 2017
Chris Eubank Jr comments on the Frampton vs Santa Cruz rematch.
So what now then? It seems that the trilogy fight will have to fight due to Frampton wanting to spend time with his family.
Where exactly it will be is a big question as Frampton has stressed that he wants it to be in Belfast. The Irishman has fought in America in his last three bouts - Texas, New York and Vegas and wants to reward his fans with a fight in his homeland.
Vegas will of course be on the table again to conclude the rivalry but it will come down to how badly Frampton wants to be in Belfast and whether Santa Cruz agrees on a Belfast fight or holds out for a bout in the States.
Disappointed for myself and for my support. Home & away. Best fans in the world! Thank you all— Carl Frampton MBE (@RealCFrampton) January 29, 2017
Carl Frampton reflects on losing to Santa Cruz.
Nothing but respect to @RealCFrampton for giving me another hell of a fight—we'll have to do it a third time! Hope all the fans enjoyed it! pic.twitter.com/ySBdqGYSLT— Leo Santa Cruz (@leosantacruz2) January 29, 2017
Santa Cruz pays respect to Frampton after their rematch at the MGM Grand.
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