Potential Fight Between Lewis Crocker and Manny Pacquiao
Lewis Crocker, the current IBF welterweight champion, might be in line for a remarkable fight with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, depending on the outcome of Pacquiao’s anticipated bout against WBA champion Rolando Romero. Jamie Conlan, Crocker’s manager, believes the potential match-up is definitely worth considering and is actively pursuing the idea.
Crocker’s Title and Future Plans
Crocker clinched the IBF title in September when he narrowly defeated Paddy Donovan by split decision. He has since been in discussions with Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, regarding the next steps in his career. While a February clash with Conor Benn in London seems like a likely scenario, Conlan revealed that communications had been established with Pacquiao’s manager, Sean Gibbons, suggesting interest in a fight with the iconic Filipino boxer should Romero not be available.
Manny Pacquiao’s Comeback
At 46 years old, Pacquiao is eager to regain his position in the welterweight division after an impressive majority draw against WBC champion Mario Barrios during his return to the ring last July. If Romero remains the primary target for Pacquiao, Conlan conveyed that they would keep the lines of communication open for a potential match with Crocker should the Romero endeavor fall through.
“I contacted Sean Gibbons from Manny Pacquiao’s team recently, and it’s evident they are focused on Romero first,” Conlan shared with BBC Sport NI. “However, if that doesn’t happen, we will certainly keep discussions going about a fight with Lewis. The opportunity to face Pacquiao would be extraordinary for him.”
Upcoming Fights and Rankings
Crocker’s next appearance is still uncertain, and it is more probable that he will face either Benn or hold a voluntary defense in Belfast before committing to any major bout. The outcome of the highly anticipated rematch between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. in November could heavily influence this timeline, particularly regarding Benn’s readiness to compete again in the welterweight category.
In the updated IBF rankings, Liam Paro is currently placed second, followed by Donovan in third, as he seeks to appeal the decision that resulted in his loss to Crocker. An appeal in Donovan’s favor could enable him to retain his high rank while establishing a final eliminator against Paro for the mandatory title shot.
Conlan expressed that while Benn is the fight Crocker desires and he is confident in a victory, they are aware that delaying plans for a bout based on other fighters’ schedules isn’t feasible. “It’s exciting to think about Benn, but we need to secure a fight in Belfast soon. There are varying factors at play that could allow us to schedule two voluntary defenses before committing to a mandatory fight as well.”
Several developments are unfolding, but with Donovan’s ranking intact through his appeal, the prospects for Crocker look favorable as he might have more time to set up significant fights in the interim.
