Matchroom Boxing is exploring the possibility of bringing Manny Pacquiao to Belfast for a showdown with newly crowned IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker, following the Filipino legend’s stalled negotiations with WBA titleholder Rolando Romero.
Crocker captured the vacant IBF belt in September by outpointing Paddy Donovan in a dramatic rematch at Windsor Park. The Northern Irishman scored two knockdowns on his way to a split-decision victory, avenging a controversial first meeting in March that ended with Donovan’s disqualification. Now, with his stock rising, Crocker’s manager Jamie Conlan has reached out to Pacquiao’s team to explore the possibility of a marquee title defense.
Watch Pacquiao vs. Barrios highlights: Watch
Matchroom CEO Frank Smith confirmed that while no talks have yet taken place, the idea of Pacquiao-Crocker holds clear appeal. “I met with Lewis and Jamie earlier in the week,” Smith said. “There are lots of opportunities… but no real discussions yet with Manny Pacquiao. You know, it could be interesting - bring Manny Pacquiao to Windsor Park.”
Smith also acknowledged the broader picture at welterweight, noting that the IBF has ordered a final eliminator between Donovan and Liam Paro, with the winner positioned to challenge Crocker by mid-2026. Still, he made clear the value of a Pacquiao fight: “Of course we’re interested - he’s a massive name. He arguably beat Mario Barrios in his fight last time… it doesn’t get much bigger than that, does it?”
Image Credit: BBC