Lewis Crocker has clearly stated his desire for a second fight against Paddy Donovan.
On March 1st, Belfast`s SSE Arena hosted a dramatic and contentious match between the two Irish welterweight boxers. The electric atmosphere fueled a night filled with excitement and controversy.
The stakes were high: the winner would earn a shot at Jaron Ennis`s IBF welterweight title, as Ennis prepares to face Eimantas Stanionis in a unification fight on April 12th.
After seven rounds, Crocker, known as `The Croc`, was bleeding from cuts above both eyes and struggling against Donovan`s persistent attacks. He was behind on points according to the judges` scorecards – 69-63 twice and 67-65, even after Donovan had points deducted in rounds 6 and 8 for headbutting. In the eighth round, Donovan knocked Crocker down with a flurry of punches. As the bell sounded, Donovan landed a final, illegal blow that knocked Crocker to the canvas. Referee Marcus McDonnell stopped the fight, disqualifying Donovan (14-1, 11 KOs) despite him leading on points. This decision awarded Crocker (21-0, 11 KOs) the victory and the opportunity to fight for the title.
Donovan`s team was unhappy with the outcome and appealed the decision. Last week, the IBF sided with Donovan, granting their appeal. Keith Sullivan, Donovan`s co-manager, expressed his satisfaction in a press release: “I am very pleased that the IBF agreed with our arguments and evidence, they made the correct decision according to the rules. The rematch will be even bigger than the first fight. The fans worldwide loved the first fight; the arena atmosphere was incredible. Matchroom put on a fantastic promotion, and it`s unfortunate how it ended. But now, Paddy will set things right and continue his pursuit of a world title.”
Crocker, returning from a vacation in Thailand, responded on Instagram to the IBF`s rematch order: “Regarding the rematch situation ordered by the IBF, I WANT the rematch. Whenever anyone has asked me about my next fight, I`ve said I want to fight Donovan again.”
“I haven`t considered any other opponent or fight except the rematch. Although I agree with the disqualification in the last fight – as a fighter, I need to prove it to everyone, the fans, and myself, and make sure there is absolutely no doubt next time. So, let’s do it again.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who represents both boxers, has suggested Windsor Park in Northern Ireland as a possible outdoor venue for this highly anticipated rematch. With local pride, undefeated records, and a path to a world title at stake, the second fight is expected to be explosive.
