Paddy Donovan Seeks Vengeance In Crocker Rematch

BELFAST, Northern Ireland (September 8, 2025) – Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-0-1, 11 KOs) is set to face Lewis “Croc” Crocker (21-0, 11 KOs) in a highly anticipated rematch for the vacant IBF World Welterweight title this Saturday at Winsor Park, Belfast. The fight, streaming live on DAZN, follows a controversial disqualification in their March IBF Welterweight Eliminator, where Donovan dominated Crocker but was disqualified for a late punch. The IBF overturned the ruling, ordering a rematch, now elevated to a world title bout after champion Jaron Ennis vacated the belt.

The 26-year-old Donovan, trained by Andy Lee and co-managed by Lee and Keith Sullivan, is focused on claiming the title. “I’ve worked 20 years for this,” Donovan said. “This is my time to become one of the best fighters in the world.” Confident after outclassing Crocker previously, Donovan aims to make history in the first All-Irish world title fight. He plans to unify titles and face top welterweights like Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia.

Crocker, once a heavy favorite, faces a determined Donovan, who has sharpened his skills with sparring against former champion David Avanesyan. Lee emphasized Donovan’s hard-earned opportunity, while Sullivan noted the shift in perception after Donovan’s dominant first performance. Adding to the excitement, Donovan’s cousin, Jim Donovan, makes his pro debut on the same card against Lukasz Barabasz.