Matchroom Interested in Crocker–Pacquiao Fight

Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, has expressed interest in staging a fight between IBF Welterweight Champion Lewis Crocker and eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao.

“I met with Lewis Crocker and Jamie Conlan this week. They came into the office, and we discussed the next steps. There are plenty of opportunities. Today, the IBF announced the final eliminator between Paddy Donovan and Liam Paro — meaning the winner will likely get a title shot around mid-next year. But before that, we’re planning to line up the next fight for Lewis.

There are big options, and hopefully we’ll have news soon. After what he showed a few weeks ago at Windsor Park (against Paddy Donovan in Belfast, Northern Ireland), many doors are open for him. There haven’t been any real negotiations with Manny Pacquiao yet, but you have to admit — it’d be incredible to bring Pacquiao to Windsor Park.

Of course, we’re interested. That’s a huge name. You know, he probably even beat Mario Barrios in his last fight. The decision didn’t go his way, but it was close. And still — it’s Manny Pacquiao. Are there any bigger names than that?” said Smith.

On September 13, Lewis Crocker (22-0, 11 KOs) defeated Paddy Donovan by split decision in their rematch to capture the vacant IBF Welterweight title.

In July, Manny Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) returned to the ring after a four-year layoff, fighting to a draw with WBC Champion Mario Barrios. The Filipino legend has since confirmed he is preparing for a December fight against Vasiliy Lomachenko in the United States.