Trainer Andy Lee has emphasized the need for Paddy Donovan to be "ruthless" in his highly anticipated rematch against Lewis Crocker for the vacant IBF welterweight title on 13 September in Belfast. This bout comes after their first encounter on 1 March, where Donovan was disqualified in the eighth round for punching after the bell, following earlier deductions for using the head and elbow.

Despite the disqualification, Donovan's team successfully lobbied for a rematch, which the IBF granted. However, the result of the initial fight stands, making this rematch a critical opportunity for Donovan to redeem himself and claim the title.

Lee, Donovan's head coach, believes that while Donovan doesn't need drastic changes, he must seize every opportunity to end the fight decisively. "The tweaks are more on his [Crocker's] side," Lee explained. "Does he become more aggressive or try to be more adventurous with his punch output? If he does, he's going to leave himself more open. My advice to Paddy is to be ruthless and when you get your chance, take him out."

This fight holds special significance as Belfast has been a pivotal location in Donovan's career. Five of his 15 professional bouts have taken place in the city, including his debut in 2019, with Lee by his side. Lee expressed that winning the world title in Belfast would be a fitting culmination of Donovan's journey. "I started out with Paddy as an amateur," Lee reflected. "This is his sixth time fighting in Belfast and he's always had a great reception, so we feel at home here. It's beautiful that he started his career here and he'll win his world title here."

As the boxing world turns its eyes to Belfast, all eyes will be on Donovan to see if he can channel the ruthlessness his coach demands and emerge victorious in this high-stakes rematch.