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Lewis Crocker vs Paddy Donovan II - 'The Real Deal' ready to represent all of Ireland in latest away day trip
Paddy Donovan feels no north-south divide as he prepares to face Lewis Crocker in Belfast, suggesting he represents all of Ireland as he bids to become world champion.
The Limerick fighter heads over the border for a second time this year to Belfast, this time with the IBF welterweight belt on the line at Windsor Park live Saturday on DAZN.
Donovan was handed a first career loss in controversial circumstances when he first faced Crocker in March's title eliminator at the SSE Arena, and is keen to settle matters.
At Wednesday's open workouts, the star looked in sharp form during his routine, before leaning on the ring apron to watch his rival be put through his paces before their fans.
A day later, at Thursday's press conferences, Donovan appeared to cut a more relaxed figure alongside his team, offering respect for his opponent once again in interviews.
Speaking to DAZN News in a press huddle, the twenty-five-year-old played down any notion that he is the villain against the local favourite, especially in the context of history.
"I don't look at it like that," he said. "I just look at who supports me, and I'm thankful for them. I've got a lot of support here in Belfast. There's people who want me to beat Crocker.
"This sport is all over the country. I represent Ireland, I represent the people of this country. It's about bringing the big nights back to Irish boxing and I think I'm the guy to do it.
"It's important to be a figure for the young generation. Ireland is successful in sports, and boxing is one of the best. To have a new world champion, it will only help it grow more.
"[If it] gives kids the opportunity to say they want to be the next Paddy Donovan, that's a great feeling. I represent myself well and that's important. I think I'm a good role model."
Donovan also showed off his new hairstyle ahead of the fight, and admitted he had his trainer's support, laughing: "Andy Lee approves but I'm not sure how it's going to look after."
Matchroom BoxingWatch Lewis Crocker vs Paddy Donovan II on DAZN
Watch Lewis Crocker vs Paddy Donovan II, plus the whole undercard from Belfast's Windsor Park, with a DAZN subscription this September.
