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The anticipated IBF welterweight title eliminator between Australia's Liam Paro and Ireland's Paddy Donovan, scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Brisbane, was cancelled because Donovan withdrew due to illness (flu), leading the IBF to elevate Paro to the mandatory challenger spot for Lewis Crocker's title.
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The highly anticipated fight would have seen Paro (former light-welterweight champ) face Donovan (who lost twice to current champ Crocker) for a world title shot.
Key Details of the Canceled Fight:
Who: Liam Paro (Australia) vs. Paddy Donovan (Ireland).
What: IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator.
When (Scheduled): January 16, 2026.
Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Australia.
Why it Mattered: Winner would be mandatory challenger to IBF champion Lewis Crocker.
Why it Didn't Happen:
Paddy Donovan fell ill (reportedly with the flu) just days before the fight, forcing his withdrawal.
Current Status:
With the fight off, Liam Paro is now positioned as the #2 contender and is likely to be ordered to face Lewis Crocker next, as per IBF rules.
Paro's team opposed Crocker getting an exception for a voluntary defense, paving the way for Paro's mandatory shot. bdshgd
CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE - PPV
The highly anticipated fight would have seen Paro (former light-welterweight champ) face Donovan (who lost twice to current champ Crocker) for a world title shot.
Key Details of the Canceled Fight:
Who: Liam Paro (Australia) vs. Paddy Donovan (Ireland).
What: IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator.
When (Scheduled): January 16, 2026.
Where: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Australia.
Why it Mattered: Winner would be mandatory challenger to IBF champion Lewis Crocker.
Why it Didn't Happen:
Paddy Donovan fell ill (reportedly with the flu) just days before the fight, forcing his withdrawal.
Current Status:
With the fight off, Liam Paro is now positioned as the #2 contender and is likely to be ordered to face Lewis Crocker next, as per IBF rules.
Paro's team opposed Crocker getting an exception for a voluntary defense, paving the way for Paro's mandatory shot. bdshgd