Irish Boxers Crocker, Donovan Set For Historic IBF Welterweight Title Rematch In Belfast

The rematch between Belfast's Lewis Crocker and Limerick's Paddy Donovan, set for September 13 at Windsor Park in Belfast, will be the first-ever world title fight between two Irish fighters, with the vacant IBF welterweight title at stake. Their first bout in March ended controversially when Donovan was disqualified for a punch after the bell, despite leading on the judges' scorecards, leading to an IBF-ordered rematch after an appeal. The rematch was initially a final eliminator but was upgraded to a world title fight after the previous champion, Jaron 'Boots' Ennis, moved up to super-welterweight. Crocker expressed his excitement about fighting for the title in his hometown stadium, calling it a dream and an opportunity to prove he is the best welterweight in the world. Donovan is equally determined to set the record straight and claim the title. Promoters and boxing figures hailed the event as historic, noting Windsor Park's significance and the growing prominence of Irish boxing on the world stage.