Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan will rematch for the vacant IBF Welterweight World Title at the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast on Saturday September 13(DAZN).
The historic clash will be the first time two boxers from the island of Ireland have met in a World Title fight, and the 18-500 capacity home of the Northern Ireland football team will host the biggest all-Irish fight ever.
The first meeting between the rivals earlier this year in March was a Final Eliminator for the IBF World Title and ended in highly controversial fashion with Belfast’s Crocker taking the win by disqualification at the SSE Arena.
“This is the fight I’ve wanted since the final bell of the first one,” said Crocker. “To run it back for the IBF World Title — and to do it such an iconic stadium in Belfast, in front of my own people — is something I’ve dreamed of my whole life.
“This isn’t just a rematch. It’s my chance to silence the doubters and prove I’m the best welterweight in the world. I know exactly what I need to do — and on fight night, I’m leaving with that World Title.”
Limerick’s Donovan, who had twice previously been deducted points, was disqualified at the end of the eighth round for punching after the bell. ‘The Real Deal’ was well ahead on all three judge’s scorecards before his disqualification.
“It’s going to be a great atmosphere in Belfast on fight night,” said Donovan. “I’m looking to repeat another stellar boxing performance, set the record straight and come home with a World Title. I can’t wait!”
An appeal from Donovan’s team resulted in the IBF granting a rematch which would again serve as a Final Eliminator for the World Title – but with Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis moving up to Super-Welterweight, the huge rematch will now be for the vacant World Title, which makes this fight even bigger.
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