Frampton "deeply sorry" homecoming bout cancelled
Carl Frampton has issued an apology after his Belfast fight was called off. (Article contains images of injury.)
Last updated 29th Jul 2017
The "Return of the Jackal" showdown was cancelled after Frampton's opponent Andres Gutierrez fell in the shower.
The 24-year-old Mexican suffered broken teeth, facial cuts and concussion in the accident.
His medical team advised that the scheduled clash at the SSE be called off due to his injuries.
In a statement released on Friday evening, organisers said they hope to rearrange the bout.
"Cyclone Promotions and The SSE Arena regret to announce that the “Return of The Jackal” event scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday 29th July, has been cancelled due to an accident to Andres Gutierrez.
“It is hoped that the event will be re-scheduled but ticket holders are advised to retain their tickets and contact point of purchase for further information."
WARNING image of Gutierrez's facial injury appears below
At Friday's weigh in, Frampton came in one pound over the Featherweight limit, meaning the fight wouldn't have been a WBC featherweight world title eliminator for the chance to challenge Gary Russel Junior.
Frampton's last Belfast performance over two years ago saw him defeat Chris Avalos to retain his world title.
The Jackal took some time out recently after losing to Leo Santa Cruz in January.
Fans had hoped his comeback would be staged at Windsor in Belfast but the hotly anticipated clash was planned for the SSE Arena.
Frampton tweeted a statement on Saturday, apologising to fans, the undercard fighters and his family.
Shortly after, organisers gave an update:
"Since the accident last night and subsequent event cancellation, Cyclone Promotions, the SSE Arena, the Gutierrez management team, boxing authorities and relevant broadcasters have been working to agree a new date for the fight.
"We appreciate the patience of all ticket holders who can retain their tickets pending confirmation of a rescheduled fight.
"For anyone wishing to arrange a refund, further details will be released early next week.
"We wish to apologise once again for this very unfortunate cancellation and wish Andres a speedy recovery from the serious injuries he sustained last night."