Jim Donovan Set for Professional Debut in Belfast on Historic Donovan-Crocker 2 Undercard

Belfast will be the stage for another chapter in Irish boxing’s proud history on September 13th at Windsor Park, as middleweight prospect Jim Donovan makes his long-awaited professional debut.

Donovan, part of Ireland’s famed Fightin’ Donovans clan, will face Poland’s Lukasz Szczepaniak (2-1-1, 0 KOs) in a scheduled 4-round bout. The debut takes place on a stacked Matchroom Boxing card headlined by Donovan’s cousin, Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan, in a rematch against Lewis “Croc” Crocker (21-0, 11 KOs) for the vacant IBF world welterweight title—the first all-Irish world title fight in professional boxing history.

Jim joins his cousins Paddy and Edward “The Dominator” Donovan (7-1, 1 KO) in the professional ranks, continuing the family’s growing presence at the highest levels of the sport.

From Family Roots to the Big Stage

Born into boxing, Donovan was first guided by his uncle Martin “Gugu” Donovan, and later came under the tutelage of former middleweight world champion Andy Lee, who also trains and co-manages Paddy Donovan.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment for years,” Jim said. “There’s no better stage to start than on a night when my cousin fights for a world title. I train like every fight is for a belt, and I can’t wait to show what I can do.”

The 25-year-old southpaw brings with him a glittering amateur résumé, boasting a 160-7 record, 10 Irish National Championships, a silver medal at the 2018 European Schoolboys, and a bronze at the 2022 IBA World Youth Championships.

High Praise from Team Donovan

Andy Lee, who has coached both Paddy and Jim side by side for years, sees special qualities in the debutant.

“Jim is a very talented fighter—sharp southpaw, strong puncher, and very dedicated,” Lee said. “He’s got all the tools to go a long way.”

Promoter and co-manager Keith Sullivan echoed the sentiment:

“Jim has everything you look for in a prospect—skills, personality, marketability, and power. The Irish fans will love him, and I’m thrilled to see him finally step into the pro ranks.”

Eyes on the Future

For Jim Donovan, September 13th represents the first step of what he hopes will be a championship journey of his own. While his cousin Paddy chases world honors, Jim is determined to carve out his own legacy.

“The Donovans are fighters through and through,” Jim said. “But I’m not here to live in anyone’s shadow. I believe I can become a world champion too. September 13th is just the beginning.”