The Pacquiao Factor: A Legacy Opportunity

Lewis Crocker prepares for potential career-defining fights in 2025 (Credit: Getty Images)

IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker could find himself facing boxing legend Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) should negotiations for the Filipino star's WBA title challenge collapse. Crocker's manager Jamie Conlan confirmed preliminary discussions with Pacquiao's camp following the Belfast fighter's controversial split-decision victory over Paddy Donovan in September.

"We've opened communication channels with Sean Gibbons (Pacquiao's manager)," Conlan told BBC Sport NI. "While Romero remains their priority, the IBF title's prestige makes this a viable Plan B. A Pacquiao fight would catapult Crocker into global boxing stardom."

Benn vs. Crocker: A British Grudge Match in the Making

Two potential paths emerge for Crocker:

• Option 1: February showdown with Conor Benn (23-0, 14 KOs) at London's O2 Arena
• Option 2: Voluntary title defense in Belfast's SSE Arena

Key factors influencing decision:

1. Outcome of Benn's November rematch vs Chris Eubank Jr
2. Paddy Donovan's appeal against September's title loss
3. IBF mandatory defense timeline

The Mandatory Defense Chess Game

*Donovan's appeal could freeze rankings until Q1 2025, potentially allowing Crocker two voluntary defenses before facing mandatory challengers.

Matchroom's Strategic Play

Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith is reportedly considering:

• Belfast homecoming event to capitalize on Crocker's growing Northern Ireland fanbase
• Co-promotion with Pacquiao's MP Promotions for Asian market penetration
• Multi-fight deal structuring to maximize Crocker's commercial potential

"The Benn fight offers immediate financial rewards," Conlan admitted, "but Pacquiao represents legacy. We're balancing short-term gains against historic opportunities."

By the Numbers: Crocker's Rise

• 19-0 professional record (12 KOs)
• 73% KO ratio at welterweight
• 87% body punch accuracy (2024 CompuBox stats)
• Projected $2.5M purse for Pacquiao fight

With the boxing world awaiting Pacquiao's final decision, Crocker continues high-altitude training in the Swiss Alps, preparing for what could become Northern Ireland's biggest boxing event since Frampton's 2016 world title triumph.