When Lewis Crocker edged Paddy Donovan to claim the IBF welterweight title, the split opinion was instant. Some pointed to Crocker’s two knockdowns as the difference, others argued Donovan’s late rounds did enough to swing it. Whatever side of the fence you sit on, one thing is clear: the new champion’s first move is crucial. Crocker’s next challenge will shape how his reign is remembered.
The Trilogy with Donovan
Let’s not forget — this isn’t just about a rematch. It’s about a trilogy. Donovan won the first, Crocker took the second, so a third fight would be the decider. And boxing history shows us fans love a trilogy: Fury–Wilder, Gatti–Ward, Barrera–Morales.
From a business standpoint, Crocker vs Donovan III is a no-brainer. The storyline is ready-made, the Irish rivalry sells itself, and it would pack an arena on either side of the border.
The risk? Crocker could undo everything he’s built if he loses. For that reason, some might argue it’s smarter to hold off on Donovan and look further afield.
The Other Names at Welterweight
The welterweight division is arguably the toughest in boxing, and Crocker now has a target on his back. Potential challenges include:
- Jaron “Boots” Ennis – The IBF’s top dog at world level. Ennis is a wrecking ball right now and probably too big a step at this point, but his name looms large.
- Vergil Ortiz Jr. – One of the most exciting fighters in the sport. Ortiz brings power, aggression, and a fan-friendly style. A Crocker–Ortiz fight would be fireworks, but it’s high risk, high reward.
- Eimantas Stanionis – The most realistic option of the three. Stanionis is tough, durable, and a perfect litmus test for Crocker. Beating him would silence critics and prove Crocker belongs in the mix with the elite.
- Domestic Options – Conor Benn might have been the obvious UK blockbuster, but with Benn tied up against Chris Eubank Jr in November, that’s off the table until at least mid-2026. That leaves Crocker with room to manoeuvre, either by chasing international names or defending against IBF-ranked contenders.
The Smart Play
Crocker is only 27. He doesn’t need to rush into unification talk or mega-fights tomorrow. A steady defence against a ranked contender would buy him time to settle into life as champion, while building experience and confidence.
There’s no shame in taking one or two fights to grow before stepping into the deepest waters. In fact, plenty of great champions built themselves up this way.
My Take
For me, the trilogy with Donovan feels like the most likely route — and honestly, I can’t complain. It’s one-all, the rivalry is hot, and it would settle the score once and for all.
But if Crocker and his team want to look past Donovan, Stanionis is the fight that makes sense. It’s dangerous, yes, but it’s also winnable. And it would put Crocker firmly on the world stage.
Either way, Crocker’s next challenge is coming fast. If he gets it right, he sets himself up as Ireland’s next star. If he gets it wrong, he risks being remembered as a brief footnote in welterweight history.
Over to You
Who do you want to see Lewis Crocker fight next? Should he settle the trilogy with Donovan or test himself against the world’s best? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this piece with your boxing mates, and head over to CMBoxing for more of my takes on the sport we love.