Matchroom Boxing Signs Welsh Twin Talents: A New Era for British Boxing?
Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing has made a significant move, signing Welsh twin brothers Ioan and Garan Croft to long-term promotional deals. The announcement, made on February 12, 2026, signals Hearn’s commitment to nurturing young British talent and potentially bringing major boxing events to Wales.
The Croft Brothers: Rising Stars with Different Styles
Ioan, the younger of the two by a minute, brings a decorated amateur background to the professional ranks, including a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. He’s a southpaw middleweight with a record of 5-0, with three wins by knockout. Garan, competing one division above as a super welterweight, boasts a Commonwealth bronze and two European silver medals, also holding a perfect 5-0 professional record with five stoppages between the twins.
Although physically identical, the brothers possess distinct boxing styles. Ioan is described as a slick counter-puncher, while Garan prefers a more aggressive, front-foot approach. Both are currently trained by former WBA lightweight champion Anthony Crolla at Fox ABC in Manchester.
Hearn’s Vision for the Welsh Twins
“I am pleased to welcome Ioan and Garan to the Matchroom Boxing team,” stated Hearn. He expressed his hope that the twins will “develop their own names in the sport – and hopefully bring some major fight nights to Wales.” This ambition highlights Matchroom’s strategy of expanding its reach and capitalizing on regional boxing enthusiasm.
The Growing Trend of Boxing Siblings
The Croft brothers aren’t the first siblings to make waves in the boxing world. The Charlo twins, Jermell and Jermall, represent a recent and highly successful example, with Jermell achieving undisputed super welterweight champion status and Jermall holding titles at super welterweight and middleweight. Further back, Khaosai and Khaokor Galaxy achieved world championship honors, becoming the first twins to do so.
Khaosai Galaxy was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1999 after a seven-year reign as WBA super-flyweight champion, while Khaokor was a two-time WBA bantamweight titlist.
What’s Next for Ioan and Garan?
Both twins have expressed their eagerness to challenge for titles and make a significant impact in their respective divisions. With the backing of Matchroom Boxing and the guidance of Anthony Crolla, they are poised for a busy 2026 and beyond. Ioan aims to bring big boxing nights to Wales, while Garan is focused on making his mark in the 154lbs division.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What weight classes do Ioan and Garan Croft compete in?
A: Ioan competes as a middleweight, while Garan fights in the super welterweight division.
Q: Who trains Ioan and Garan Croft?
A: They are both trained by former world champion Anthony Crolla.
Q: What are the twins’ current professional records?
A: Both Ioan and Garan have a perfect 5-0 professional record.
Q: What is Matchroom Boxing’s plan for the Croft twins?
A: Matchroom aims to develop their careers and potentially bring major boxing events to Wales.
Related reading