Crocker's World Title Dreams in Tatters – But Belfast Comeback on Cards
The IBF welterweight crown has slipped from Lewis Crocker's grasp, but his manager Jamie Conlan is adamant that this setback will prove a catalyst for greater things to come. A unanimous points decision defeat at the hands of Liam Paro may have stung, but Conlan is convinced that his charge will emerge from this experience a significantly improved fighter – 10 times better, in fact!
The Brisbane bout was a gruelling contest, with both fighters giving it their all. Paro seized an early initiative, but Crocker staged a thrilling comeback in the championship rounds, threatening to turn the tide. The Aussie's experience and guile ultimately told, however, as he weathered the late onslaught.
The road ahead for Crocker is already being mapped out by Conlan, who sees a swift return to Belfast as the perfect springboard for his fighter's next move. "We have a plan in place," he revealed to BBC Sport NI. And what a boost it would be to see Crocker back in action at home before Christmas! Conlan believes it would not only give his fighter an enormous advantage but also provide Matchroom with a morale-boosting victory.
The decision to contest the title defence in Brisbane was always going to be a daunting task. Outbidding their promoters by a cool GBP20,000, No Limit Boxing secured the purse bid – and Conlan admitted that it was a significant challenge for Crocker to overcome without the comfort of home support. He pinpointed specific moments where Crocker was held back, leaving him rueful about what might have been.
Conlan remains optimistic that one major victory will propel Crocker straight back into contention for world title glory. And with the IBF likely to rank his charge highly, he's anticipating a swift return to the mix – with plenty of suitors waiting in the wings. Over the coming weeks, Conlan will sit down with Matchroom officials to identify the ideal opponent and chart the next course of action for this talented 29-year-old.