Boxing
Crocker relishing underdog tag down under against Paro
Garner vs. Magnesi on DAZN subscription - Saturday
Lewis Crocker has no issues with taking his first IBF welterweight defence to Australia to face "odds-on favourite" Liam Paro.
The Belfast star returns to the ring next week for the first time since claiming the belt by split decision against Paddy Donovan.
Promoters Matchroom lost a bid however to keep his first defence in Northern Ireland, sending Crocker to Queensland instead.
Quoted by Boxing Scene though, Crocker insists he is unfazed by the challenge, especially against an ex-champion in Paro.
"For me, winning the world title will never be as good anywhere as else as it was the last time," he said about fighting in Brisbane.
Sparks fly as Zayas and Ennis meet
Relive DAZN FACE OFF here
"Paro is the odds-on favourite here. Everyone's coming to see him and stuff. I'm happy to fight abroad and it builds the legacy."
Paro, the previous IBF light-welterweight champion, is bidding to secure two-weight status when he steps out for a home crowd.
If Crocker prevails at the Pat Rafter Stadium though, the star is set for a major trilogy bout with Donovan towards the end of 2026.
The latter won his final eliminator against Karen Chukhadzhian last May to confirm a second full shot at the IBF strap for himself.Â
Zayas vs. Ennis - watch only on DAZN
Xander Zayas defends his WBO and WBA super welterweight titles against Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis on Saturday, June 27, exclusively live on DAZN. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Joshua vs. Prenga (July 25) and Canelo vs. M'billi (Sept 12) PPVs, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.
