Lewis Crocker, the city’s welterweight whirlwind, is strapping on his gloves for a swift comeback in the squared circle. This Saturday, he’s squaring up against Mexico’s own human hurricane, Jose Felix, at Ulster Hall. The whole spectacle is getting the global spotlight on DAZN, and ‘The Croc’ is chomping at the bit to ignite what he swears will be his standout year.
Crocker, boasting an unblemished 18-0 record with a neat bundle of 10 KOs, is still riding the high from his recent masterclass against Tyrone McKenna at the SSE Arena. That bout, a much-talked-about ‘Battle of Belfast’, saw him glide through with a decisive points victory, infusing the 27-year-old pugilist with a swaggering confidence as he gears up to headline his very first Matchroom extravaganza.
Crocker reminisces, with a hint of a smirk, “That night was electric. In that ring, losing was about as likely as a snowball’s chance in a bonfire. This was my show all along. I just needed the right stage to strut my stuff, and boy, did I put on a show.”
He continues, chuckling, “Felix was all about making me throw in the towel, saying I’d crumble like a stale biscuit in 10 rounds. But let me tell you, I’ve never had more fun trading punches. Grinning like a Cheshire cat the whole time – it was a blast.”
Armed with newfound gusto from his last tussle, Crocker is buzzing. “I’m feeling it now, this is my time. With Matchroom and DAZN backing me, I’m set to skyrocket. Fighting in Belfast again? Absolutely brilliant.”
Crocker, a product of Belfast’s gritty Sandy Row, has been unbeatable since his debut back in 2017. Trained by the seasoned Billy Nelson, this powerhouse puncher is eyeing an action-packed 2024, aiming to climb the ranks in the welterweight division.
“Funny story,” Crocker grins, “I was halfway through a kebab when I got the call. Thought I’d be lounging for a bit, but nope, back in the ring next month. Perfect timing, really. Keeps me sharp after a solid win. The stage is set, and I’m ready to rumble for the big leagues.”
Crocker is all about dreaming big. “World Champion – that’s the ticket, the endgame. Headlining in my hometown, it doesn’t get better. I’m unstoppable and gunning for the top.”
Under Nelson’s wing, Crocker’s honing his skills, eager to tangle with the welterweight big dogs.
“I knew I had to step out of Belfast, find my fighting focus. Scotland’s the place – no distractions. With Billy, I’m hitting my stride, getting fitter, stronger. Last fight was just a teaser. This year, I break out.”
Crocker is up for any challenge. “I’m in it to win it, every time. If Felix wants a fight, he’s got one. This is my year, starting off with a thunderous bang.”
Crocker eyes the welterweight horizon, ready to tussle with names like Conor Benn and Josh Taylor. “Welterweight’s brimming with talent. I’m not calling anyone out, but hey, let’s get those top fights rolling. It’s only a matter of time.”
The upcoming Matchroom show is a buffet of boxing delights. Cheavon Clarke, the cruiserweight comet, is facing off against Belfast’s own Tommy McCarthy. Paddy Donovan, Limerick’s welterweight wizard, is set to light up 2024 against Argentina’s Williams Andres Herrera. Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker is back after his smashing victory over Cyrus Pattinson, and Guildford’s newbie Giorgio Visioli is ready for round two. Also joining the fray are Leli Buttigieg, Kurt Walker, and a host of others, each ready to make their mark.
