LONDON, England - The historic world welterweight title fight between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan has today officially been announced for September 13 at Windsor Park.

The bitter rivals will meet in a rerun of their controversial first fight in March, when Crocker, who was behind on all three cards, won via DQ after eight.

That fight was a final eliminator for the IBF's 147lb title but this time the stakes have been raised even higher with the full belt on the line for the rematch.

It had been held by the still undefeated Jaron Ennis, but he officially relinquished his title as he plots his maiden outing as a 154lb fighter.

Now, Belfast's Crocker and Limerick man Donovan will meet in the first-ever world title fight between two fighters from the island of Ireland.

Around 8,500 fans had packed into the Odyssey Arena, Belfast for the first fight and, when the IBF ordered an immediate rematch following an appeal from Team Donovan, it looked as though they would return to the same venue.

But, as soon as the fight was upgraded to a full world title clash, promoter Eddie Hearn agreed a deal with the Irish government to take the fight outdoors at Windsor Park, for in the stadium's first boxing event since Carl Frampton beat Luke Jackson there in 2018.

Now, Matchroom have this morning formally announced the rematch for September 13 outdoors at Windsor Park, with a potential capacity of 25,000.

The fight will also hand Donovan the chance of revenge after Crocker officially handed him the first defeat of his career on March 1.

Donovan, 26, had been outboxing his opponent but had points deducted for use of the head during the sixth and eighth rounds. Then, moments after the bell sounded to end the eighth, Donovan dropped Crocker.

Referee Marcus McDonnell decided the punch was after the bell and threw Donovan out. The 'Real Deal' is now 14-1, 11 KOs while Crocker improved to 21-0, 11 KOs.

As part of Matchroom's official press release, Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson spoke of his enthusiasm when saying: "Live sport unites communities across Northern Ireland, and we’re thrilled to build on the success of our previous boxing event in August 2018.

"We are proud to be partnering with Matchroom in hosting this world championship bout that not only showcases top-tier boxing but also highlights the versatility of the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park as a multi-purpose venue."