Lewis Crocker's next fight: Eubank & Prograis in the mix for Windsor Park world title defence in April
The when and the who surrounding Lewis Crocker’s first defence of the IBF welterweight title has come a step closer.
BBC Northern Ireland reported today that ‘The Croc’ is set to return on April 11 in Belfast, with the Matchroom star once again set to headline at Windsor Park, the venue where he dethroned arch-rival Paddy Donovan in their September rematch.
His next opponent is expected to be confirmed within the next fortnight, ramping up speculation over who will get the call.
We take a look at three viable candidates for Crocker’s voluntary world title defence next spring.
Who could Lewis Crocker fight next?
Harlem Eubank (22-1, 9 KOs)
After a disappointing showing against Jack Catterall, Harlem Eubank returned to winning ways on November 21, dropping down a level to outpoint Josh Wagner in a fight he controlled throughout.
As a voluntary challenger he fits the profile: a recognisable surname, a style that should make Crocker look good, and - crucially - he would be eligible subject to IBF approval.
Matchroom have rarely had difficulty doing business with Eubank’s promoter, Wasserman, and pairing the Eubank name with a raucous Belfast crowd could make for a commercially successful first defence.
Karen Chukhadzhian (26-3, 14 KOs)
Crocker and trainer Billy Nelson will want to settle into life as a world-title pairing without necessarily needing a marquee name next.
Karen Chukhadzhian isn’t that - except in surname length - but he does bring credibility through two outings against elite American Jaron Ennis.
Ennis has since moved to super-welterweight, and while Chukhadzhian would arrive as the underdog, a knockout win for Crocker over the Ukrainian would strengthen his own case for eventually joining Ennis at 154lbs.
Regis Prograis (30-3, 24 KOs)
‘Rougarou’ is past the peak version that pushed Josh Taylor to the wire six years ago, yet remains a live threat and a significant name.
Regis Prograis has mixed with Taylor, Devin Haney and Jack Catterall, and last time out edged Joseph Diaz over 10 rounds.
Veterans entering the later stages of their career often seek fresh opportunities at new weights, and the New Orleans southpaw may see both life and money at welterweight.
His confidence rarely wavers, and he may view Crocker - and the IBF belt - as beatable.
Who else could be in the frame?
Other names in the wider picture include Liam Paro, should he defeat Paddy Donovan in January, while the all-action Eimantas Stanionis would guarantee a war with Crocker.
His compatriot Egidijus Kavaliauskas could be considered if he boosts his credentials by winning the European welterweight title against Samuel Molina on November 28.
