The IBF has called for a welterweight final eliminator between its two highest-ranked contenders, Liam Paro and Paddy Donovan, to decide current titleholder Lewis Crocker's mandatory challenger.

Last month, Donovan lost a 12-round split decision to Crocker for the vacant IBF welterweight title in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Five days later, Paro had an eye injury but beat David Papot In an IBF title eliminator by hard fought unanimous decision in Queensland, Australia.

Following a successful petition from Donovan's manager, Keith Sullivan, the IBF moved to maintain Donovan at No. 3. Paro, a former IBF junior welterweight titlist, sits at No. 2 following his recent win.

Paro (27-1, 16 KOs), previously with Matchroom, is working with No Limit while Donovan (14-2, 11 KOs) is promoted by Matchroom. The sides have until October 30 to come to an agreement or the fight will go to purse bids.

"I can't thank the IBF enough for hearing our appeal and showing real integrity with their decision," Donovan told The Ring. "It's not easy to step in and correct something that went wrong, but they did.

"Keith is a lawyer and submitted another convincing appeal. Brilliant job. This has only made me hungrier — I'll be back fighting for that world title soon, and when I do, there'll be no doubt left."

Crocker is expected to take an interim fight with the winners colliding next year.