Belfast's IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker eyes a decisive clash with Australian contender Paro in Townsville, Australia, slated for May. The 29‑year‑old captured the belt in September with a split decision over Paddy Donovan at Windsor Park. A win could set the stage for a high‑profile unification bout.

When negotiations stalled, a purse bid decided the venue. No Limit outbid Matchroom by $27,000, securing the fight in Townsville. The decision keeps the bout in Australia, where Crocker will face a former IBF super‑lightweight champion and test his mettle against a 24‑0 record holder.

Crocker says a victory would open doors to unification with top names like Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, Rolando Romero, and the WBC’s number‑one challenger. He views the fight as a stepping stone toward becoming undisputed, noting that the division’s leaders are within reach if he can overcome Paro.

Preparing for the May bout, Crocker plans to arrive in Australia a month early to acclimate to the heat and time zone. He remains open to fighting in the United States if a bigger venue emerges, expressing a desire to headline in iconic arenas like Madison Square Garden or Las Vegas.