Belfast’s Lewis Crocker, 20-0 (11 KOs), and Limerick’s Paddy Donovan, 14-0 (11 KOs), will be fighting for more than just bragging rights when they collide at the The SSE Arena on March 1st. It has been confirmed that the fight will double as a final eliminator for Jaron Ennis’ IBF welterweight title.

The fight has been discussed for some time but both parties have finally agreed that the timing and stakes are right for the all-Irish clash.

Crocker hasn’t boxed since June when he outlasted Conah Walker in one of the best fights of 2024. The styles always looked like gelling and the fight didn’t disappoint. Crocker and Walker went toe to toe for ten outstanding rounds before ‘The Croc’ was awarded a close but unanimous decision.

Donovan has been inactive for even longer. In May he slowly but surely broke down the experienced Lewis Ritson, tightening his grip on the fight the longer it went and stopping the former British lightweight champion in the ninth round.

The fight is a true clash of styles. The heavy handed Crocker is a formidable presence who likes to take his time, walk his opponents down and unload bursts of power shots. The 27 year-old is also an outstanding finisher.

Crocker spent years as the bogeyman of the British 147lb division but the way Walker was able to hang in, absorb his power and go on to have plenty of success of his own may just make facing him a more appealing prospect for Britain’s top welterweights.

Donovan, 25, is a slick, smart southpaw who is adept at walking his opponents into traps and then capitalising with his quick hands. Donovan has looked like a potential star and although Williams Herrera gave him a couple of tough rounds before being stopped in the seventh back in January, he has progressed through his professional career serenely so far.

The fight appears to be the ideal, high profile test both men need at this stage of their careers and with the prize of a shot at Ennis’ IBF title added to the mix, the pieces are in place for memorable night in Belfast.