CARL Frampton has been hailed a "true champion" as he made history becoming the first Northern Irish boxer to earn two-weight world titles.
The north Belfast boxer won the WBA world super featherweight title after beating Leo Santa Cruz in New York in front of legions of fans.
Thousands of boxing fans from Northern Ireland had travelled to watch the much-anticipated fight and there were cheers of delight when the Tiger's Bay boxer spoke of his roots following his gruelling win.
Asked what the victory meant to him, Frampton replied that "it was a dream come true", before cheekily adding, "hopefully I don’t have to buy a pint for the next 20 years".
The 29-year-old fighter took the belt on a majority decision to become a two-weight world champion and followed in his mentor, Barry McGuigan's footsteps by conquering the division he once won in 1985.
Frampton remains undefeated winning all 23 of his professionals since 2009.
Northern Ireland's political leaders heralded the success of 'The Jackal' after he defeated his Mexican opponent and made history in New York
First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness congratulated him on his second title and a first for a Northern Ireland boxer.
"Carl has proven once again he is a true champion and last night showed incredible grit, heart and skill against a formidable opponent," they said.
"His relentless determination and incredible sacrifice to be the best he possibly can be has now deservedly made him champion at two different weight classes.
"Carl deserves this well-earned success and we extend our congratulations to his wife Christine and his extended family.
"We congratulate his manager Barry McGuigan and trainer Shane McGuigan for the role they have played in helping shape Carl's path to success and stardom."
World amateur champion and Olympic bronze medallist Michael Conlan tweeted: "Wow class by Frampton thought it would be hard for him to get a points decision, but he defiantly deserved that! Unbelievably for Irish sport".
As tributes rolled in pop star Gary Lightbody from Snow Patrol also said: "What a fight. Fight of the year. First Norn (sic) Irish champion at two different weight classes. Legendary".
Former champion jockey AP McCoy also congratulated the Tiger's Bay native, writing on Twitter: "Well done team @RealCFrampton", while boxer Amir Khan tweeted that Frampton had given a "spectacular performance".
Northern Ireland footballer Steven Davis also said:"Two weight world champion, what a fight, brilliant @RealCFrampton" and Kyle Lafferty added: "The best boxer our wee country has ever produced. Performance of his life and world champion".
Stormont Sports Minister Paul Givan also said: "For our country to again punch above its weight in sport is a great credit to all our sports men and women.
"Sport is a fantastic way of bringing people together and Carl and the rest of our sports people are role models to so many."
