The Controversial First Fight

Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan first clashed in March, a bout that ended in disqualification. Donovan was thrown out in the eighth round for punching after the bell, handing Crocker the win. This victory set Crocker up for a shot at the then-champion Jaron 'Boots' Ennis. However, an appeal by Donovan's team led to the IBF granting a rematch. With Ennis vacating the title to move up to light-middleweight, the stage is set for an all-Irish world title fight at Windsor Park on 13 September.

Donovan's Accusations

At a recent media call, Donovan accused Crocker of exaggerating the impact of the late punch in their first fight, suggesting that Crocker 'took a dive' to secure the disqualification. 'I think he took a dive to get me disqualified,' Donovan stated. 'I'd been winning every round and was in a comfortable position, so the only way for Lewis to get the win was by taking a dive.' Donovan remains confident, vowing to secure a knockout in the rematch.

Crocker's Response

Crocker, on the other hand, insists that the disqualification was justified and is focused on proving his worth in the rematch. 'I agreed with the decision, but also agreed there should be a rematch,' Crocker said. 'He didn't knock me out. My eye was shut and I was in trouble at that stage. Paddy made the mistake and paid for it.' Despite being labeled the underdog, Crocker is determined to showcase his true abilities and achieve his dream of winning the IBF welterweight title.

The Road to the Rematch

Both fighters have been preparing intensively for this historic bout. Crocker acknowledges the need for a much better performance to leave no room for debate this time around. 'I have to be better. Paddy is a great fighter and showed that in the last fight. I'm a massive underdog in this fight - nobody's expecting me to win. To pull off the win, it would be the stuff of dreams,' Crocker remarked.

A Fight for the Ages

This rematch is not just about the IBF welterweight title; it's about pride, redemption, and legacy. Both Crocker and Donovan have everything to fight for, and the boxing world is eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable showdown at Windsor Park.