-
1 hour ago
IBF welterweight world title: Lewis Crocker v Paddy Donovan
Venue: Windsor Park, Belfast Date: Saturday, 13 September
Coverage: Live on BBC Radio 5 Live and Sports Extra 2, with live text commentary on BBC Sport website and app
Paddy Donovan insists he is not taking “anything for granted” as he prepares to face Lewis Crocker for the vacant IBF welterweight title at Belfast’s Windsor Park on Saturday.
Donovan was disqualified in their first fight back in March for punching after the bell when ahead on all three scorecards, having already been deducted points for fouls earlier in the contest.
His performance that night has led to him being installed as a heavy favourite for this rematch and the Limerick man has exuded confidence all week.
However, he is not downplaying the task ahead and is expecting a much improved performance from Belfast’s Crocker on a night when two fighters from the island of Ireland will contest a world title for the first time.
“It’s a world title fight and Crocker is still in with a big chance,” said the 26-year-old southpaw.
“Any fighter in a world title fight is going to give it his all, so I will expect the best Lewis Crocker and the strongest Lewis Crocker, but the best Paddy Donovan.
“I don’t think he is the same fighter or has the same confidence he had in the first fight, but I can’t take anything for granted. All that matters is Saturday night.”
‘Boxing is all I’ve ever known’
Donovan was crestfallen when disqualified in what was a final eliminator for the title in March, but having successfully lobbied the IBF for a rematch and champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis opting to move up in weight, the return meeting was upgraded for full honours.
Donovan grew up in a family immersed in boxing with his father Martin bringing Paddy and his brother Edward to competitions throughout Ireland.
‘The Real Deal’ says the sport is all he knows and despite some bad days to balance the good, every step along the road has brought him to the brink of a world title.
“If you asked me if I can do anything else, I’d probably tell you ‘no’. Boxing has been my life and everything I’ve been through in my life, inside and outside of boxing, has led me to this point,” he added.
“It’s been a good journey, exciting with more ups than downs, but it all leads to this. Get the job done on Saturday and we can celebrate.”
