Freshly crowned IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker might square off against boxing icon Manny Pacquiao or British rival Conor Benn for his maiden title defense, manager Jamie Conlan revealed to BBC Sport NI.
Pacquiao in the Crosshairs
Conlan confirmed preliminary discussions with Pacquiao's camp, though the Filipino superstar's priority remains a WBA title clash with Rolando Romero. "If that falls through, we've opened communication," said Conlan, emphasizing the historic opportunity a Pacquiao fight would represent for the Belfast boxer.
"What a rise it would be to fight Manny Pacquiao," Conlan remarked, noting the 46-year-old legend's interest in another welterweight championship run.
Alternative Scenarios
More probable options include:
- A February London showdown with Benn
- A voluntary defense in Crocker's hometown of Belfast
The Benn possibility hinges on November's Eubank Jr. rematch outcome, which will determine when the English fighter can return to welterweight competition.
Rankings Landscape
The IBF's updated standings feature Liam Paro at #2 and Crocker's recent opponent Paddy Donovan at #3. Donovan's team has appealed their September split decision loss, potentially setting up a Paro-Donovan eliminator for the mandatory challenger spot.
"Benn is the fight Crocker wants," Conlan stated, while acknowledging the logistical challenges of waiting for another bout's result.
Matchroom Boxing executives are reportedly weighing options that could allow Crocker two voluntary defenses before facing a mandatory challenger in 2025.
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