IBF grant Paddy Donovan rematch with Lewis Crocker
Lewis Crocker (left) reacts after being struck by Paddy Donovan (right) as referee Marcus McDonnell temporarily pauses the welterweight bout. Pic: Peter Morrison/PA Wire.
The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has ordered a rematch between Paddy Donovan and Lewis Crocker.
The rematch has been ordered by the IBF following an appeal filed by Donovan's team regarding his disqualification in the eighth round of his March world welterweight title eliminator against Crocker in Belfast.
Donovan was on the verge of winning before the controversial decision, but Crocker won the world title eliminator by disqualification after the Limerick boxer's punch after the bell at the end of the round.
The winner of the rematch will be given mandatory status for the welterweight title, and the bout must take place within 120 days.
“I am very proud of the support Keith and Andy provided to me during the process,” Donovan said. “I have a great team around me. I am pleased with the outcome of the appeal.
"I am eager to get back in the ring to showcase my boxing abilities once again and continue on the path to a world title.”
Keith Sullivan, Donovan’s co-manager, along with trainer Andy Lee added: “I am very happy that the IBF agreed with my arguments and evidence, they made the right decision under the rules. The rematch will be even bigger than the first fight.
"The crowd and fans around the globe absolutely loved it; the atmosphere in the arena was electric. It was a great promotion put on by Matchroom and it is unfortunate it ended as it did, but now Paddy will set the record straight and continue his quest for a world title.”
