Paddy Donovan: “I Can Cause Paro Problems If I Land”

26-year-old welterweight Paddy Donovan has commented on a possible fight against 29-year-old former world champion Liam Paro. While the venue and date of the bout have yet to be finalized, the Irishman made it clear that he is ready for any challenge.

Donovan acknowledged the Australian’s quality but emphasized that his own punching power could be the decisive factor in the matchup.

“He’s a great fighter who came up from a lower weight, a good southpaw, very active with his hands, very durable. I didn’t watch his fight with Papo in full, just the highlights, but now we’re going to study it with Andy Lee (Donovan’s trainer — ed.) once he finishes work with Joseph Parker.

The difference between us is that I have more power, and I can really cause him problems if I land. I don’t think he can do the same to me — but we’ll see. Let the best man win,” said Donovan.

Previously, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) ordered an eliminator in the welterweight division between Paddy Donovan (14-2, 11 KO) and Liam Paro (27-1, 16 KO).

The winner will become the mandatory challenger for Lewis Crocker, who won the world title in fall 2025.

Paro last fought in September 2025, defeating David Papo. Donovan has already faced Crocker twice — once in spring and once in autumn 2025. Both times Paddy lost — first by disqualification, then by decision.