The expected rematch between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan will take place on September 13th in Belfast.
Crocker, from Northern Ireland, will face Donovan, from the Republic of Ireland, for the vacant IBF welterweight title at Windsor Park Stadium.
This fight comes after Crocker won a dramatic first encounter, an eliminator for the IBF title, in Belfast in March.
The fight will be the first all-Irish world title fight.
Donovan was controversially disqualified for hitting Crocker after the bell at the end of the eighth round. He had also been deducted points on two occasions for using his elbow and head.
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Donovan was visibly upset after the result, claiming he couldn’t hear the bell amidst the fierce atmosphere at the SSE Arena in Belfast.
Donovan appealed the decision and the IBF ruled that the rematch would be for the full world title after Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis vacated the title by moving up to junior middleweight.
“There’s going to be a great atmosphere in Belfast on fight night,” Donovan said. “I’m looking to repeat another stellar boxing performance, make things clear, and go home with a world title. I can’t wait.”
Donovan
Crocker said it’s an opportunity to leave the result of the first fight beyond all doubt.
“This is the fight I’ve wanted since the final bell of the first,” Crocker said.
Crocker
“To repeat it for the IBF world title, and to do it in such an iconic stadium in Belfast, in front of my own people, is something I’ve dreamed of all my life.”
Crocker
“This isn’t just a rematch. It’s my chance to silence the doubters and prove I’m the best welterweight in the world.”
