'A world-class fighter!' - Lewis Crocker backs rival to win title ahead of Chris Eubank Jr.-Conor Benn rematch

'The Croc' scored two knockdowns en-route to a close split-decision victory in the pair's rematch in front of a hometown Belfast crowd, to upset pre-bout expectations.

Having won their first encounter after Donovan was disqualified while up on the scorecards in the spring, Crocker made it two from two with a much-improved performance.

But speaking at Wednesday's press conference for Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn's rematch, the star professed hope that his rival will scale the summit himself in due time.

"He was boxing so well, I didn't want to make a mistake," he said. "Paddy's a world-class fighter. He will come back and he will win a world title. But that was my moment in life.

"It's been unbelievable since Saturday. Winning a world title couldn't be better. I'm on cloud nine at the minute.  But once I got out there, with the crowd, it was my moment.

"It's great for the city. It gives people another opportunity to follow in my footsteps. You look at [Carl] Frampton, and [Anthony] Cacace. For my name to be on that list now, it's brilliant."

Crocker namechecked Benn as a potential foe in the immediate aftermath of his win, with the Briton having targeted fellow welterweight champion Mario Barrios himself this year.

Before any bout can be made however, the star must come up against Eubank Jr. again, after losing their first encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium by unanimous decision.

Crocker believes it will match the hype again, adding: "Their first fight was a great fight as a fan, just to watch. It delivered in all aspects. There's big nights ahead for both of them."

Watch the biggest fights and best fighters with a DAZN subscription

A DAZN subscription provides access to over 185 fights a year across a range of combat sports from the world's best promoters.

For pricing and more information, click here