MIAMI (October 21, 2008) – Undefeated sensation “Ireland’s” John Duddy returns to action November 21st in his adopted New York City home, headlining “The Grande Event” against veteran Sam “The Punching Policeman” Hill, at famed Roseland Ballroom in Manhattan.
Duddy (25-0, 17 KOs), on his way from the middleweight to light middleweight division, is fighting at 158 pounds against Hill (17-9-1, 10 KOs), who has beaten former world champion and Olympic gold medalist David Reid (TKO9), and fought world champions Jermain Taylor and Maselino Masoe.
“The Grande Event,” promoted by Cedric Kushner’s Gotham Boxing, also features middleweight Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (20-0, 15 KOs), light middleweight Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (22-1, 15 KOs), and NABO lightweight champion Jorge Luis “The Truth” Teron (22-0-1, 15 KOs) in separate bouts.
“I’m glad to get back in the ring,” Duddy said. “It’s going to be a great show. I had a good fight in Boston and I’m really looking forward to fighting again in New York City. I can’t wait to show my fans there what I’ve been doing to improve with Pat Burns (head trainer for the second Duddy fight). This fight will get me one step closer to a world title shot someday.
“Hill comes to fight. He’s a crafty pro who knows his job and is very capable. He went the 10-round distance against Jermain Taylor, Everybody brings their A game because they want to be the first to beat me. They all raise their game and I’m preparing for Hill’s best.”
Duddy, rated No. 2 by the WBO, as well as No. 4 by the WBC and No. 7 by the IBF, has been training in Miami.
“Training camp has been great and the sparring is good,” Duddy added. “I’ve been sparring with fighters who have a lot of speed and decent power. I’ve really enjoyed the time I’ve had with faster guys. I’ve picked up a lot and it’s better than sparring with plodding, heavier guys.”
Tickets, priced at $80.00, $100.00, $150.00 and $250.00, are on sale and available to purchase by calling Irish Ropes Promotions (212.868.9544), Jack Demsey’s Restaurant & Bar in Manhattan (212.629.9899), Hilltop Bar in Queens (718.429.8870) and The Heritage Bar in Yonkers (914.776.7532). For more information about “Ireland’s” John Duddy or “The Grande Event” go to www.irishropes.com. Doors will open at 6:30 PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.