Parker, Sheeraz, Donovan: Andy Lee’s Eye-Catching Stable of Fighters Ahead of All-Irish Rematch

The boxing world is buzzing as Paddy Donovan prepares for his highly anticipated rematch against Lewis Crocker, with the bout carrying even more significance this time around. At Donovan’s side stands Andy Lee, a former WBO middleweight world champion turned trainer, who has been steadily building one of the most impressive stables in modern boxing. With names like Joseph Parker, Hamzah Sheeraz, and Donovan himself under his guidance, Lee is quickly carving out a reputation as a trainer capable of guiding elite fighters to championship glory.

This article explores Andy Lee’s boxing journey, his coaching heritage at the legendary Kronk Gym, and the exciting group of fighters in his care who are on the verge of world titles.

Andy Lee’s Boxing Career: From Amateur Talent to World Champion

Before his rise as a trainer, Andy Lee built a decorated career inside the ring. A standout amateur, Lee competed at the 2004 Olympics, narrowly losing to future world champion Hassan N’Dam N’Jikam. A year earlier, he had faced Gennady Golovkin at the World Amateur Championships, losing only on countback — a testament to his high-level talent.

Lee’s skills caught the attention of legendary trainer Emanuel Steward, who brought the young Irishman to the United States. Forgoing the chance to aim for the 2008 Olympics, Lee turned professional under Steward’s tutelage.

His professional career was filled with resilience. After a setback against Bryan Vera in 2008, Lee rebuilt his path and challenged Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. for the WBC middleweight title in 2012, though he was stopped in the seventh round. His defining moment came two years later when he knocked out Matt Korobov to win the vacant WBO middleweight championship.

Although he later lost the belt to Billy Joe Saunders, Lee retired in 2017 with a record of 35-3-1 (24 KOs), respected for his grit, skill, and world championship pedigree.

Andy Lee’s Coaching Heritage: Lessons from Emanuel Steward and Kronk Gym

Much of Andy Lee’s philosophy as a trainer comes from his time at the iconic Kronk Gym in Detroit, where Emanuel Steward molded champions. Lee not only absorbed Steward’s technical wisdom but also his ability to build fighters mentally for the biggest stages.

Alongside his cousin Tyson Fury, Lee worked with SugarHill Steward, another Kronk disciple, during Fury’s second heavyweight title reign. Lee was part of Fury’s corner during the unforgettable 2020 victory over Deontay Wilder.

This coaching heritage — combining Kronk’s offensive dynamism with Lee’s tactical sharpness — has become the foundation for the fighters under his guidance today.

Andy Lee’s Current Stable of Fighters

Unlike some trainers who specialize in only one weight class, Lee’s roster spans the boxing spectrum, from welterweight prospects to heavyweight champions. His stable includes:

Joseph Parker – The Heavyweight Contender

Former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has been working with Andy Lee since 2021. Initially brought together by Tyson Fury’s recommendation, their partnership has blossomed into a long-term collaboration.

Parker has since rejuvenated his career, not only returning to winning ways but also securing his place as interim WBO champion. He is set to face Fabio Wardley on October 25, with a potential shot at Oleksandr Usyk or even an upgrade to full champion status looming.

With Lee in his corner, Parker has improved his composure, shot selection, and fight IQ — elements that could soon lead him back to the top of the heavyweight division.

Hamzah Sheeraz – A Rising Star at Super Middleweight

British talent Hamzah Sheeraz has also joined forces with Lee. After a lackluster performance against Carlos Adames, Sheeraz made a statement at super middleweight by knocking out Edgar Berlanga in July. Under Lee’s guidance, Sheeraz has developed sharper fundamentals and greater tactical awareness, making him one of the most dangerous prospects in the UK boxing scene.

Paddy Donovan – Ireland’s Brightest Hope

The centerpiece of Lee’s stable is Paddy Donovan, who is preparing for his all-Irish showdown against Lewis Crocker. The rematch carries even higher stakes with the vacant IBF welterweight world title on the line following Jaron “Boots” Ennis’s move up in weight.

Donovan has trained with Lee since his amateur days, and their bond shows in the young fighter’s confidence and style. A victory would not only crown Donovan as Ireland’s next world champion but also mark Lee’s first world champion under his direct tutelage.

Jim Donovan – Another Name to Watch

Adding to his responsibilities, Lee also coaches Jim Donovan, Paddy’s cousin, who has recently turned professional. While early in his journey, Jim benefits from the same elite environment, with Lee ensuring the next wave of Irish boxing continues to rise.

Ben Whittaker – Olympic Flair

Olympian Ben Whittaker is another standout under Lee’s care. Known for his flashy style, Whittaker has been refining his technical skills with Lee, ensuring that his natural flair is supported by a solid boxing foundation.

The Significance of the Crocker vs Donovan Rematch

The first fight between Paddy Donovan and Lewis Crocker ended in controversy, with Donovan losing composure and striking Crocker after the bell. Now, the stakes are even higher, as the rematch will determine who claims the IBF welterweight world championship.

For Andy Lee, this fight is especially meaningful. While he was part of Fury’s corner for his triumphs, Donovan could become the first world champion directly trained by Lee. It would validate Lee’s growing reputation as one of the sport’s most promising trainers.

Andy Lee Fighters Close to World Titles

What makes Lee’s stable so fascinating is that multiple fighters are within touching distance of world honors:

• Joseph Parker could become heavyweight champion again, either by defeating Usyk or being elevated by the WBO.

• Hamzah Sheeraz has already proven his worth at super middleweight and could soon challenge for a world title.

• Paddy Donovan has a direct shot at championship glory in his next fight.

Few trainers in boxing can boast such a diverse, championship-ready roster in such a short time.

Conclusion: Andy Lee’s Rapid Rise as a Trainer

From his own championship pedigree to his Kronk Gym education, Andy Lee has all the tools to guide the next generation of world champions. His fighters — Joseph Parker, Hamzah Sheeraz, Paddy Donovan, Ben Whittaker, and Jim Donovan — represent one of the most exciting stables in modern boxing.

As Donovan prepares for his career-defining rematch against Lewis Crocker, all eyes are on Lee’s corner. A victory would not just crown a new Irish world champion but also confirm Andy Lee as a trainer destined for the top of the sport.

With multiple fighters nearing world titles, Andy Lee’s stable is arguably the most eye-catching in boxing today, and his influence on the sport is only set to grow.