Imagine waking up to a 4am call that changes the course of boxing history. That’s exactly what happened when No Limit CEO George Rose secured a groundbreaking $1.1 million purse bid, setting the stage for Australia’s Liam Paro to challenge IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker on home soil. But here’s where it gets controversial: this isn’t just about Paro—it’s part of a bold strategy to dethrone two of Eddie Hearn’s UK world champions this year, with either Tim or Nikita Tszyu potentially joining the blockbuster card. Could this be the year Australian boxing takes down the giants? Let’s dive in.
In a recent interview with Fox Sports Australia, Rose revealed the nail-biting details of the early morning Zoom call that sealed the deal. And this is the part most people miss: No Limit’s bid of $1.152 million edged out Hearn’s Matchroom by a mere $27,000, marking the largest purse win ever by an Australian promoter. Rose couldn’t hide his excitement, recalling the tension as Matchroom’s offer of $1.125 million was read out first. “It felt like an eternity waiting for that final number,” he admitted.
For Paro, the news was equally surreal. Waking up to a barrage of missed calls from his trainer, Alfie Di Carlo, he couldn’t believe his dream of fighting for a world title in Australia was finally coming true. “It still feels unreal,” Paro said, reflecting on his journey since signing with No Limit.
But here’s the kicker: Rose isn’t stopping at Paro. He’s eyeing a showdown between one of the Tszyu brothers and Matchroom’s new IBF super welterweight champion, Josh Kelly. With Nikita Tszyu ranked sixth and Tim Tszyu at ninth in the IBF rankings, both are in prime position to challenge Kelly later this year. Could this be the Tszyus’ moment to shine on the global stage?
The stakes are high, and the timing is perfect. Paro, who was previously managed by Matchroom, is eager to prove himself after a split-decision loss to Richardson Hitchins in Puerto Rico. Rose believes fighting at home will give Paro the edge he needs. “Every percentage matters at this level,” he emphasized. But will it be enough to dethrone Crocker?
As No Limit finalizes the bout’s date and venue—likely in late March or early April—boxing fans are buzzing with anticipation. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is this the beginning of a new era for Australian boxing, or will Hearn’s Matchroom prove too formidable to topple? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this boxing blockbuster!
