Lewis Crocker Wins IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator Against Paddy Donovan by Disqualification

Image credits: Dave Thompson/Matchroom

The highly anticipated IBF welterweight title eliminator between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan ended in chaotic scenes at the SSE Arena in Belfast, with Crocker being awarded the win by disqualification. The fight was marked by a series of intense exchanges, with both fighters giving it their all in front of a sold-out crowd. Donovan, who was dominating the fight, was disqualified at the end of the eighth round for throwing a punch after the bell, which sparked a mass brawl in the arena.

The fight began with both fighters feeling each other out, but it quickly turned into a grueling battle. Donovan's speed and agility proved to be a challenge for Crocker, who was forced to dig deep to stay in the fight. Despite being the busier fighter, Donovan was warned several times for using his elbow and head, and was eventually deducted two points for his actions. The IBF title eliminator was on the line, and both fighters knew that a win would bring them one step closer to a world title shot.

As the fight wore on, Crocker began to tire, and Donovan sensed his chance to finish the fight. He landed a series of powerful shots, including a big right hand that sent Crocker crashing to the canvas. However, just as it seemed like Donovan was about to be declared the winner, he threw a punch after the bell, which led to his disqualification. The welterweight division is one of the most competitive in boxing, and this fight was a testament to the skill and determination of both fighters. The boxing world will be eagerly awaiting the next move of both Crocker and Donovan.

The undercard was also filled with exciting fights, including a victory for Kurt Walker over Leon Woodstock, and a win for Steven Ward over Tommy McCarthy. The night was marked by a series of impressive performances, and it was clear that the future of Irish boxing is in good hands. Here are the results from the undercard:

• Padraig McCrory lost to Craig Richards in a featherweight contest
• Kurt Walker defeated Leon Woodstock by majority decision
• Steven Ward defeated Tommy McCarthy in a cruiserweight contest
• Ruadhan Farrell defeated Gerard Hughes in a super-bantamweight contest
• Jack O'Neill defeated Mohammed Wako by decision
• Shauna Browne lost to Elif Nur Turhan in a lightweight contest

The aftermath of the fight was marked by controversy, with Donovan's team announcing that they would appeal the decision. However, for now, Crocker is the winner, and he will move on to face the current IBF welterweight champion, Jaron 'Boots' Ennis. The boxing world will be eagerly awaiting the next move of both Crocker and Donovan, and it is likely that we will see a rematch between the two fighters in the near future.