.jpeg)
IBF welterweight world champion Lewis Crocker’s camp has made contact with Manny Pacquiao’s team over a potential bout.
Eight-division champion Pacquiao returned to the sport after a four-year retirement in July, earning a credible draw with WBC title holder Mario Barrios. Despite being 46, Pacquiao impressed against a fighter 16 years his younger, with many feeling the Filipino had done enough to win the bout.
Subscribe to DAZN now to watch over 185 fights a year
Pacquiao’s star-power has remained intact, with plenty of reigning champions and big names calling out the veteran, including Conor Benn and WBA belt holder Rolly Romero .
Romero and Pacquiao have been in negotiations regarding a clash for some time, with previous reports suggesting that a fight was close to being made. However, the WBA recently ordered Romero to defend his 147lbs title against Shakhram Giyasov, throwing the Pacquiao fight into doubt .
Crocker’s team have sensed an opportunity, with the Northern Irishman’s manager, Jamie Conlan, getting in touch with Pacquiao’s camp.
He told BBC Sport: “I reached out to Manny Pacquiao's team. They are trying to do Romero but if that can't be done, then we are going to have communication. What a rise it would be to fight Manny Pacquiao.”
The 28-year-old Crocker became a world champion for the first time in September when he defeated rival Paddy Donovan by split decision in a rematch.
Carl Frampton, a fellow Northern Irishman who reigned as world champion, believes a fight with Pacquiao would be ‘incredible’.
The fighter-turned-pundit told DAZN News: "There's talk of Manny Pacquiao.
"He's looking at an opponent. He's got a date and he's looking. Lewis Crocker against Manny Pacquiao in Vegas, I would have to be there.
Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing
Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime.
ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing
Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime.
ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
"That could be incredible, and he would beat someone like Pacquiao. He's got opportunities. The world is the kid's oyster. It's great for him.”
However, just as Pacquiao’s fight with Romero is under threat due to a mandatory challenge, Crocker may also soon be occupied by orders from another sanctioning body. The IBF have ordered Australian Liam Paro to face Donovan in a final eliminator for Crocker’s world title.
With Paro and Donovan yet to agree a purse and date for the fight, Crocker still has time to make a voluntary defence against an opponent of his choosing.
DAZN is the home of combat sports, broadcasting over 185 fights a year from the world's best promoters, including Matchroom, Queensberry, Golden Boy, Misfits, PFL, BKFC, GLORY and more.
An Annual Saver subscription is a one-off cost of £119.99 / $224.99 (for 12 months access), that's just 64p / $1.21 per fight.
There is also a Monthly Flex Pass option (cancel any time) at £24.99 / $29.99 per month. A subscription includes weekly magazine shows, comprehensive fight library, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes documentaries, and podcasts and vodcasts. For pricing in your country, more information and to sign up, click here.
English (US) ·