Carl’s grounded personality, entertaining style and humour have garnered an intensely loyal and vocal following amongst the boxing community, and his status as a mainstream star has strengthened across the globe.

His popularity stems not only from his success in the ring but also the strength of his community and family values. Originally from the staunchly loyalist area of Tigers Bay in North Belfast, Carl grew up at the back end of the troubles in Northern and has spoken frequently about the positive influence boxing has had on his life. Having first started at the age of 9, the sport exposed him to a strong mentor in the form of his coach, friends from across the community divide, and a drive and determination that allowed him to avoid some of the poorer choices on offer at that time.

Carl is now a prominent supporter of local charities and amongst others supports the Northern Ireland Hospice and is a patron for Northern Ireland Integrated Education, campaigning for children from different religions to be educated together rather than in separate schools.

As a Protestant married to a Catholic and with two young children he is determined to be a role model for the future of Northern Ireland and to ensure that the next generation grow up without the ingrained community prejudices of the past. He is also passionate about promoting opportunity for young people, developing the social skills and career prospects of young people through sport. In the 2016 New Year Honours Carl was awarded an MBE for services to boxing and the community.