Crocker relishing underdog role against Paro

Lewis Crocker says he is comfortable being the outsider when he faces Liam Paro. The welterweight contender believes the pressure sits with his opponent, who carries home expectations into the bout.

“Paro is the odds-on favourite here and everyone is coming to see him. I went through that the last time, so it takes a bit of ease off my mind and I'm prepared.”

— Lewis Crocker, via BBC Sport

What Lewis Crocker said

Crocker meets Paro in a welterweight contest that could move the winner closer to a world-title shot. The Belfast fighter has been the A-side before and understands the mental load that comes with being favoured. Paro is expected to have crowd support behind him.

What it moves

Crocker's mindset suggests he will look to capitalise on any nerves Paro brings to the ring. Fighting as the underdog removes the burden of expectation and may allow him to take calculated risks. Paro will need to manage the occasion as well as the opponent.

Source: bbc.co.uk. Full Lewis Crocker fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.