The Belfast man claimed the IBF welterweight title in September in a rematch with rival Paddy Donovan for a homecoming triumph at Windsor Park.

But Crocker has since raised eyebrows by deciding to switch up his team, departing from Scotland-based Nelson for London-based Huzaifah Iqbal.

Speaking on the call, 'The Croc' has explained it came from a need to further hone his skills outside of his comfort zone as he chases further glory.

"It was a tough decision to make," Crocker told The Ring. "I was comfortable in Scotland and I have good friends there. Everything was sorted for me.

"By no [means] was it an easy decision. Maybe it was too comfortable, I needed to push myself out of my comfort zone and almost make a fresh start.

"I’m only going to be fighting world class fighters from now on. As world champion, if my team feels that I can be better, I have to take those opportunities.

"I have big plans ahead and I know I’m going to show the world how good a fighter I can be and will be. I have great confidence going into the next year."

Crocker gambles on switch before bigger tests

DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel

When Billy Nelson broke news on social media - and subsequently voiced his frustration on the subject - over Lewis Crocker's split, a response was due.

The Northern Ireland man has been measured in his words, but it seems as if the criticism from his former trainer has stung him heading into the new year.

Nevertheless, few will fault a switch. With the best will in the world, Crocker could have - and maybe did - come up short in both of his Paddy Donovan bouts.

The end result is that his move to London may unlock greater potential for a fighter keen to ensure his reign as welterweight world champion is a long one.

Hopes for a first defence sooner rather than later are surely in the pipeline. Now, he must hope his decision to turn from Nelson is a gamble that pays off.

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