World Boxing Champions Promotions
Lewis Crocker is set to make a highly anticipated return to Windsor Park next spring, where he will stage a voluntary defence of his IBF world welterweight title in front of his home fans.
The Belfast native captured the vacant IBF belt in September, edging rival Paddy Donovan via split decision in a dramatic encounter staged at Northern Ireland’s national football stadium. The bout was contested in front of a sold-out crowd and marked Crocker’s biggest career achievement to date.
Crocker vs. Donovan was more than just a world title fight—it represented boxing’s long-awaited return to Windsor Park for the first time since Carl Frampton’s victory over Luke Jackson in August 2018. The event reaffirmed the stadium’s status as a premier venue for major boxing occasions in Northern Ireland.
The September clash also served as a rematch of the pair’s controversial March meeting, which ended in Donovan’s disqualification. This time, Crocker left no doubt, using key knockdowns and ring control to secure the championship on the scorecards.
It is understood that Crocker’s first title defence is being targeted for 11 April, with his opponent expected to be officially confirmed within the next two weeks. The unbeaten champion enters the bout with a flawless professional record of 22 wins from 22 fights.
A successful defence would likely see Crocker return to action again in late summer, as his team looks to keep him active during his championship reign.
Crocker has been outspoken about his ambition to secure high-profile fights, most notably against Conor Benn. Benn recently scored a commanding victory over long-time rival Chris Eubank Jr in their rematch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 15 November, further raising his profile.
Speaking earlier to BBC Sport NI, Crocker’s manager Jamie Conlan identified Benn and WBCP welterweight champion Mario Barrios as potential future opponents for the 28-year-old champion.
However, Benn has since played down the possibility, stating this week that Crocker is “not really a name that is on my radar.” Despite this, Crocker remains firmly focused on establishing himself as a leading force in the welterweight division.