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.”
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