Lewis Crocker captured the vacant IBF welterweight title with a dramatic split decision victory over Paddy Donovan at Windsor Park in Belfast, marking a career-defining moment for the undefeated local fighter.

The Belfast native dropped Donovan twice—in the third and fifth rounds—which proved pivotal in edging the contest on two of the judges` scorecards. Crocker received scores of 114-112 and 114-113, while Donovan was awarded a 115-111 verdict on the third card.

The victory served as redemption for Crocker following their controversial first bout in March, which he won via disqualification despite being largely outboxed. This time, the 27-year-old turned in a far more disciplined and technically sharp performance, showcasing speed, precision, and power as he improved his record to 22-0. Donovan’s now stands at 14-2.

"Nobody gave me a chance in this fight, nobody," Crocker shouted to the Windsor Park crowd. "But I want to say to all the people who gave me stick after the last fight—when you write your post tomorrow, make sure you write ‘Lewis Crocker, world champion’."

Knockdowns Make the Difference
Donovan entered the ring to a warm reception despite being away from his hometown of Limerick. However, Crocker—focused and unmoved—headed straight to his corner, exuding determination and composure.

Fighting at Windsor Park for the first time since Carl Frampton headlined the venue in 2018—a night when Crocker featured on the undercard—the home favourite stayed composed throughout a tense, tactical affair. Frampton watched closely ringside as Belfast rallied behind its new boxing hero.

The early rounds were cagey, with both fighters taking a measured approach. Crocker appeared content to fight at range, drawing Donovan in and looking for counters. That strategy paid off in the third round when he timed Donovan on the way in, landing a shot that resulted in the first knockdown, although Donovan appeared more off balance than hurt.

The pace picked up in the fourth, as both fighters traded hooks, but it was Crocker who was momentarily forced backwards. Still, Donovan seemed to have regained momentum until Crocker struck again late in the fifth with a crisp counter left hand, sending the Limerick southpaw to the canvas for a second time.

The knockdowns ultimately swung the scorecards in Crocker`s favour in what had been a closely contested battle.

Source: BBC