In a stunning turn of events, Australian boxing star Liam Paro finds himself unexpectedly thrust into a world title fight against IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker. This development comes on the heels of disappointing news that Paro’s scheduled title eliminator match against Paddy Donovan was cancelled just days before its planned date.
The upcoming bout between Nikita Tszyu and Michael Zerafa, set for January 16, promises to be one of the most thrilling moments in Australian boxing history, with a lot of tension and rivalry leading up to it. Fans can catch all the action starting at 7 PM AEDT on Main Event through Kayo Sports.
Today, the IBF has mandated that Crocker must defend his title against Paro, who has now been elevated to the position of mandatory challenger. This decision came after the IBF rejected a request from Crocker’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, seeking to schedule a voluntary defense in April.
Paro's team is now preparing to enter negotiations with Hearn to finalize the details of this significant fight.
This recent turn of events caps off an extraordinary few days for the fighter hailing from Queensland. Initially, Paro was set to face Irish boxer Paddy Donovan in what was anticipated to be a crucial match in his quest to become a two-division world champion. The winner of this contest would have secured a chance to take on Crocker.
This bout was slated as the co-main event for the highly anticipated showdown between Michael Zerafa and Tim Tszyu. Additionally, the fight card featured the heavyweight debut of the exciting new No Limit signing, Nelson Asofa-Solomona.
However, everything changed when Donovan fell ill with the flu and had to pull out of the fight, leading to a swift response from No Limit CEO George Rose, who immediately advocated for Paro to receive a title shot.
Reports from the United States confirm that Paro will indeed get that opportunity. Veteran boxing journalist Dan Rafael was among the first to share that the IBF has officially ordered Crocker to defend his title against Paro.
While Crocker had hoped to arrange a voluntary defense against Conah Walker in Belfast, that plan has now been dismissed, clearing the way for Paro to aim for a championship title.
Regarded as one of Australia’s most promising boxing talents, Paro captured the IBF super lightweight title in 2024 by defeating Puerto Rico's Subriel Matias in an upset victory. However, he lost his title only six months later to American sensation Richardson Hitchins, who subsequently defended his title against fellow Australian George Kambosos.
Since then, Paro has moved up to the welterweight division, achieving victories over Jonathan Navarro and David Papot. Yet, he faced a significant setback when Donovan’s withdrawal prevented their bout from taking place next Friday.
Initially expressing his disappointment to Fox Sports Australia on New Year's Day, Rose conveyed his frustration over the cancellation but emphasized the need to pivot quickly and secure a world title opportunity for Paro.
Paro echoed these sentiments, suggesting that Donovan’s withdrawal was merely a delay in what he believes is his inevitable rise to championship status. He even questioned Donovan’s commitment to the fight, implying that the flu excuse might have been a cover for a lack of desire to compete.
Reflecting on the cancelled match, Paro said, "I’m devastated the fight is off. I’ve prepared thoroughly, even bringing in world-class sparring partners, so having it taken away at this point is incredibly disheartening. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t frustrated. I was ready to face the toughest version of Paddy Donovan, and now that opportunity is gone."
He added, "Honestly, it seems like he wasn’t interested in facing me. He delayed signing the contract and now pulls out due to illness. I’ve trained through sickness before, including for my title fight against Matias; fighters should fight. I was primed and ready to make a strong statement, and perhaps he recognized that. In any case, he would have just been another victory on my record."
Rose expressed his dismay, stating, "It’s incredibly disappointing to see Donovan’s team back out of a world title eliminator. Such opportunities are rare. Liam’s preparation and drive were at an exceptional level. Nevertheless, our focus is now firmly back on helping Liam pursue the world title, and we won’t let this setback hinder our progress."
Paro remains resolute: "As frustrating as this situation is, it’s part of boxing. We’ll stay dedicated in the gym, knowing that there’s a greater plan in motion. My goal hasn’t shifted; I’m coming for Lewis Crocker and the world title. I will become a two-division champion. This is merely a temporary setback, not the end of my journey. I will stay sharp and prepared for the title shot ahead of me because I cannot be denied this opportunity."
So, what do you think? Should Donovan have pulled out, or was it a strategic move? Share your thoughts!
