Paddy Donovan hopes to have his 2024 laid out.
Donovan stopped Williams Andres Herrera in the seventh round of their scheduled 10-round contest last weekend and he had already planned the year ahead.
“I am ranked 13 by the WBA [sanctioning body],” Donovan said. “We have a plan for this season. We have a three-fight deal signed with Eddie [Hearn]. This one [that just occurred on the 27th], at Croke Park May 7th, then my home city Limerick City for the European title.”
“[We want to finish the year against] A fellow Irish man named Lewis Crocker. He is No. 5 in the world. He is the European champion in the division right now. [it’s the] most talked about fight in [Ireland]. Everyone wants to see it.”
Donovan now appears set to return at the yet-to-be-announced Katie Taylor versus Chantelle Cameron III bout that could take place at Croke Park. Taylor is one of the most significant fighters in not just Irish boxing history, but women’s boxing as well. A true pioneer, she helped women get equitable pay in boxing and recognition in the amateurs.
“Katie is such a unique human being,” Donovan added. “Since the day I met her at the age of 12, she never forgot my name. So charming in every way, so polite, just an amazing human being. We are so happy to have her as an Irish fighter. Every country in the world wishes they had a Katie Taylor.
“It is a privilege for her to come and train with me and Andy [Lee] in the gym when she is back [from training in the US]. It shows that even though America might be leading the way with the sports, that special fighters do come from our country.”
Donovan’s future opponent Crocker also fought last weekend. Crocker was the main event, weighed in three pounds over the welterweight limit and stopped Jose Felix Jr., traditionally a super-featherweight and lightweight, in the fifth round. That is the fight that they both are hoping to make by the end of 2024.
Donovan is 25-years-old, with a record of 13-0 (10 KOs).
