IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker's hand injury is "nothing too serious" according to manager Jamie Conlan. The Belfast fighter, who won the title with a split decision over Paddy Donovan in September, has a strained metacarpal that set his training back about four weeks. Crocker's team requested extra time for recovery, pushing his first title defense against mandatory challenger Liam Paro from early April to May.

The fight will likely take place in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, after No Limit outbid Matchroom by $27,000 to secure promotion rights. Despite traveling to opposition territory, Conlan views the Australian venue as an opportunity for Crocker to build his legacy. The 25,500-capacity Queensland Country Bank Stadium is the leading contender to host the bout in May.

Conlan emphasized that fighting in Paro's backyard creates "a great legacy" for his fighter. The manager expressed confidence that Crocker will beat Paro decisively before returning to Belfast for another major fight at the end of summer. Queensland Country Bank Stadium appears ready to host what Conlan calls "back-to-back headliners outdoors" following Crocker's victory at Windsor Park.