Lewis Crocker has no issues with taking his first IBF welterweight defense to Australia to face the favored ex-junior welterweight champ, 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 purse bid however to keep his first defense in Northern Ireland, sending Crocker to Queensland instead. 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.