Matchroom Boxing Announce Historic All-Irish World Title Fight for September 13

Matchroom Boxing have announced what many in boxing have been waiting for. Paddy Donovan vs Lewis Crocker 2 is set for September 13 at the Clearer Twist National Stadium, at Windsor Park, Belfast. It marks the first-ever all-Irish world title fight, and it promises to be an absolute cracker, live on DAZN.

Paddy Donovan Dominates First Fight Before Controversy

Paddy Donovan vs Lewis Crocker 2 Confirmed

It was a boisterous crowd at the SSE Arena in Belfast for their first fight on March 1, 2025. Crocker started well, having success with uppercuts, but Donovan quickly took control. He began to pivot and pick his punches impressively. As the rounds progressed, Donovan’s precision began to dominate the action, while Crocker struggled to land anything significant.

Crocker (21-0, 11 KOs) received warnings, and in the sixth, he was deducted a point after repeated warnings for using his head. Despite this deduction, the domination continued, as he controlled the distance and picked his punches well.

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The drama peaked in the eighth. Donovan (14-1, 11 KOs) continued to connect with the cleaner work before another point deduction left him and his corner furious. “The Real Deal” then increased the pressure, scoring another knockdown. Subsequently, both traded on the ropes before Donovan landed a huge shot after the bell. Referee Marcus McDonnell deemed it one infraction too many and disqualified Donovan, leaving the fighter, his corner and everyone watching in a state of shock.

Paddy Donovan vs Lewis Crocker 2

The announcement of the rematch is not a surprise, but the confirmation it comes with the vacant IBF welterweight title will be on the line is a great carrot. This will be the first ever all-Irish world title fight, and with it happening at Windsor Park, it makes the fight even bigger. During their first fight, Donovan dictated the tempo, and if allowed again, it’s difficult to not see him comfortably winning the fight. 

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Crocker needs to be proactive in the rematch and use his jab, and work the body of his opponent, which should help slow him down. This rematch should be fireworks from the opening bell.