Welsh boxing twins Garan and Ioan Croft share common goal of title glory

Twin rivalry as driving force

Garan Croft, just one minute older than his identical twin Ioan, says they have always tried to outdo each other. Whether running, on assault bikes or vertical climbs, they want to beat each other, and sometimes need to be separated in sparring. However, they will never fight each other as Garan is a super-welterweight and Ioan a middleweight.

Matchroom deal and early wins

In February 2024, both brothers signed with promoter Matchroom, whose chairman Eddie Hearn described them as 'two very talented young fighters'. They won their Matchroom debuts in April: Garan beat England's Marco Simmonds, and Ioan defeated Serbia's Novak Radulovic. Garan believes the backing can bring big boxing nights back to Wales, which would be a dream come true.

From amateurs to professionals

In 2024, the twins left the Great Britain squad five months before the Paris Olympics after losing trust in GB Boxing. They turned professional and now train under former WBA lightweight champion Anthony Crolla in Oldham. Ioan praises the positive environment, saying it doesn't feel like work.

Past achievements and future goals

Representing Wales at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Garan won bronze in the light-middleweight division while Ioan claimed gold in the welterweight category. They cherish those memories but look ahead. Both hope to return to the ring this summer and aim for a British title shot within 12 months. Garan is confident that with Matchroom, it's within reach, while Ioan acknowledges the hard work required.

Home support and inspiration

Despite now living in Manchester, the brothers miss their home village of Crymych in Wales. They receive massive support from back home, with 200-300 fans making a 10-hour round trip to their fights. Garan feels Welsh boxing is thriving and hopes to inspire the next generation.