Belfast boxing star Lewis Crocker will defend his IBF welterweight world title on Australian soil after Liam Paro’s promoters secured the rights to stage the mandatory championship bout.
Australian outfit No Limit Boxing won the official purse bid, meaning the highly anticipated title fight will take place in Paro’s home country rather than in Belfast.
Australia Confirmed as Fight Host
Following the purse bid outcome, No Limit Boxing confirmed the news via social media, revealing they had successfully secured promotional rights for Paro’s mandatory challenge. While final details are yet to be announced, Brisbane and the Gold Coast are both being strongly considered as potential host cities.
There remains a slim possibility that the fight could be staged in Las Vegas, but Australia is currently the expected destination for the world title showdown.
Belfast Misses Out on Major Title Night
Had Crocker’s promoters Matchroom, led by Eddie Hearn, won the bid, the contest would have been staged at the SSE Arena on 18 April — a date that would have marked another huge night for Belfast boxing.
A defence at Windsor Park had also been discussed earlier, following Crocker’s memorable victory there last year.
Crocker’s First Fight With New Coach
The 29-year-old champion has not fought since his statement win over Paddy Donovan in front of a sold-out Windsor Park crowd in September. The upcoming bout will also mark Crocker’s first appearance under new head coach Huzaifah Iqbal, following his split from long-time trainer Billy Nelson in January.
That change adds an extra layer of intrigue as Crocker prepares for the toughest defence of his professional career.
Paro Earns Mandatory Shot
Challenger Liam Paro, also 29, was originally scheduled to face Paddy Donovan in a final title eliminator in Brisbane this January, but the Irish fighter was forced to withdraw due to injury. The IBF subsequently confirmed Paro as the mandatory challenger, removing the option of a voluntary defence for Crocker.
Paro is a former IBF super-lightweight world champion, having claimed the belt in June 2024 with a unanimous decision victory over Subriel Matias. His only professional defeat came later that year against American Richardson Hitchins.
Since moving up to welterweight, Paro has recorded impressive wins over Jonathan Navarro and David Papot, setting the stage for his first world title challenge at 147lbs.
What Happens Next?
With promotional rights now settled, official confirmation of the fight date and venue is expected shortly. For Crocker, the bout represents both a major test and an opportunity to cement his status as one of Belfast’s most successful modern boxing champions — even if it comes far from home.
Belfast fans may be disappointed to miss out on a local title defence, but all eyes will be on Australia as Crocker looks to retain his IBF crown on enemy territory.
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