Lewis Crocker vs. Paddy Donovan 2: Preview & Betting Tips

We have an epic rematch coming our way this weekend as Paddy Donovan and Lewis Crocker meet at welterweight for the vacant IBF world title in Belfast.

Crocker (21-0, 11 KO’s) is a favourite in Belfast, and it’s easy to understand why. He is known for his toughness, aggression, and heavy hands. However, in the first fight he simply couldn’t close the distance consistently or find answers to Donovan’s movement. Their first fight back in March ended in chaos, and the controversy has only added fuel to the fire ahead of the rematch.

Donovan (14-1, 11 KO’s) looked every inch the rising star many believe he is. The Limerick southpaw boxed beautifully, controlling the distance, countering with sharp left hands, and gradually breaking Crocker down, but ultimately was disqualified due to landing punches after the bell.

Tale of the Tape

Lewis Crocker – Odds 5.00

Record: 21-0, 11 KO’s

Age: 28

Height: 5ft9

Reach: N/A

Weight: Welterweight

Stance: Orthodox 

Paddy Donovan – Odds 1.17

Record: 14-1, 11 KO’s

Age: 26

Height: 5ft9

Reach: N/A

Weight: Welterweight 

Stance: Southpaw

Lewis Crocker vs Paddy Donovan 2: Analysis

For Crocker to win again, many feel that he’ll need the performance of his career. He’ll need to be much better at cutting off the ring, making it rough, and dragging Donovan into a dogfight. That means getting close, roughing him up on the inside, and testing his temperament after the messy end to the last fight. 

Donovan just needs to box within himself. Sharp footwork, variety in the jab by touching body and head, and measured combinations will once again expose Crocker’s predictable forward march. If he stays composed, a late stoppage or comfortable points win looks inevitable here.

This second meeting gives both men a chance at closure. For Donovan, it is about proving beyond any doubt that he is operating on a higher level. Crocker has a chance to show he can do more than survive when the pressure is on.

Crocker vs Donovan 2: Prediction & Betting Tips

The first fight showed there are levels to the sport, and Donovan is at least one level above Crocker in my opinion. With a more disciplined performance, he should reaffirm his status as one of Ireland’s brightest boxing prospects. 

I expect a sharper, cleaner display this time around, and a win that sets Donovan on course for European and eventually world honours.

The oddsmakers are that convinced Donovan will prevail in this one that there is not much value in this contest on the side of a moneyline or KO/TKO win for Limerick man. However, I do like the Paddy Donovan to win in rounds 7-12 at odds of 2.80. I think Donovan’s sharp snappy punches can eventually stun Crocker around halfway, and he’ll struggle to recover as the fight goes on, thus leading to a late stoppage win for the 26-year-old.