Eubank vs Benn rematch could shape Lewis Crocker next move, says Jamie Conlan

Conlan hints Eubank-Benn result could influence Crocker’s title defence plans

As the boxing world gears up for the heated middleweight rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn this Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, one man keeping a particularly close eye on proceedings is Lewis Crocker’s manager, Jamie Conlan. The outcome, Conlan believes, could have ripple effects for the IBF welterweight champion’s next career move.

Eubank and Benn’s rivalry has captured the imagination of fans since their brutal first encounter in April — a fight that Eubank won in gruelling fashion. Their rematch promises fireworks once again, but for Conlan and Crocker, what happens in North London could open or close certain doors when it comes to their next major bout.

Crocker, who became IBF welterweight world champion after edging Paddy Donovan via split decision in Belfast back in September, has been linked to a potential showdown with Benn. It’s a fight that makes sense from both a sporting and promotional standpoint — a domestic clash between two explosive British talents that would light up any arena. But if Benn suffers another loss to Eubank Jr, that dream match-up could quickly lose its shine.

“The plan is still Croc versus Benn,” Conlan told BBC Sport NI. “But we’ve had two or three other conversations, including with Mario Barrios for a unification. Everything’s still up in the air right now. We’ve pencilled in Windsor Park for April or May, though there are also February dates being discussed. This weekend’s result will definitely be a big factor, but not necessarily the deciding one.”

The ripple effect of Eubank vs Benn II

Conlan’s comments underline just how intertwined the sport’s narrative threads can be. One fight can set the tone for several others down the line. Should Benn avenge his earlier loss to Eubank, he’ll not only reclaim his reputation but instantly put himself back in the mix for a world title shot. A meeting with Crocker, then, would make perfect sense — a high-stakes, fan-friendly clash between two knockout artists at the peak of their powers.

But if Benn loses again, things become far more complicated. Two straight defeats would almost certainly derail his momentum, making it difficult to justify a world title fight right away. In that scenario, Conlan and his team may pivot toward an even bigger prize: unification.

The mention of Mario Barrios, the current WBC welterweight champion, is no coincidence. A unification fight between Crocker and Barrios would be monumental — not just for the fighters themselves, but for Irish boxing as a whole.

“Lewis wants the biggest fights possible,” Conlan continued. “He’s earned that right. Beating Paddy Donovan in front of a Belfast crowd showed what kind of fighter he is. But the sport moves fast. You can’t wait around too long. That’s why we’re exploring every possibility — Benn, Barrios, or whoever else makes sense.”

Crocker’s dramatic victory over Donovan cemented his status as one of Ireland’s finest current fighters. It was an intense, back-and-forth battle that saw him dig deep to retain composure and edge a decision in a packed Windsor Park. The noise, the tension, and the emotion of that night still echo in Conlan’s voice when he talks about it.

“It was special,” he said. “That atmosphere — it reminded me of what boxing means to people here. Windsor Park was electric. Bringing another huge night there next year, whether it’s Benn or a unification, would be something else.”

Building the future of Irish boxing

While Crocker is clearly Conlan’s main man and the flag-bearer for their promotional team, the Belfast fight figure is equally determined to nurture the next generation. Speaking after a recent nine-fight card at the Devenish Complex — headlined by Teo Alin’s victory over Lee Gormley to capture the BUI Celtic super-featherweight title — Conlan made clear that the goal isn’t just about world champions today, but creating them for tomorrow.

“We’ve had some great conversations about future events,” he revealed. “We’re looking at giving Conor Quinn, Kurt Walker, and Matty Boreland title opportunities next year. There’s talk with the Waterfront Hall about Commonwealth title fights — Quinn for the main belt, Walker and Boreland for the Silver titles.”

It’s part of what Conlan describes as the “conveyor belt” — a steady stream of Irish fighters coming through the ranks, each inspired by those ahead of them.

“Lewis is carrying the flag now,” Conlan said. “But you can’t just rely on one star. You’ve got to build from underneath, make sure there’s a next wave ready to step up. That’s what we’re doing — creating a platform for the next generation to thrive.”

It’s a formula that’s worked for Conlan Promotions so far. The shows are competitive, the crowds are passionate, and the fighters are hungry. Crocker may be the star attraction for now, but names like Walker and Quinn are already starting to gather their own followings.

What next for Lewis Crocker?

As for Crocker himself, the 27-year-old has remained focused on his training while Conlan handles the logistics. A showdown with Benn would bring commercial appeal and media buzz, but a unification bout would bring legacy. Either way, the Belfast man is in a strong position.

Should the Eubank-Benn rematch end in another victory for Eubank, Benn’s credibility as a contender will take a heavy hit. For Crocker, that could mean looking beyond British opponents toward the elite of the welterweight scene — Barrios, Jaron Ennis, or even Errol Spence Jr, depending on how the division shakes out in 2025.

Whatever happens, one thing is certain: the Eubank vs Benn rematch this weekend is about more than pride. It could reshape the welterweight landscape and, by extension, determine what direction Lewis Crocker takes next.

A city ready for another big night

For Belfast, the excitement of another potential Windsor Park fight night is palpable. Few cities in the world embrace boxing quite like the Northern Irish capital. From the Carl Frampton nights to Crocker’s rise, it’s a community that celebrates its fighters like local heroes.

“Boxing is in our blood here,” Conlan said with a grin. “When those lights go up at Windsor and the crowd starts singing, you feel it in your bones. That’s what keeps us pushing — to keep bringing those nights back.”

So as Eubank Jr and Benn lace up their gloves once more under the lights of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the result will mean more than just bragging rights. It could decide who stands across from Lewis Crocker next — and where Belfast’s next great night of boxing will unfold.

Whether it’s Benn or Barrios, one thing’s for sure: The Croc will be ready.