DAMIEN DUDDY STEPS up in weight this weekend when he fights for an ISKA 4 Nations title at the White Horse Hotel in Derry.
The St Johnston man faces England’s Ross Thompson over five rounds at 72kgs.
The bout is part of Mayhem Martial Arts and Fitness’ ‘Showtime 4’ event, which will have a number of title fights on the bill.
Duddy steps up in weight, but is said to be coming in with ‘incredible power’.
In July, Duddy stopped Ireland’s number 2 72kgs fighter, Glen Power, in the first round, having defeated fancied Belfast man Garrett Smylie at 67kgs back in March.
This weekend sees Duddy fight for a senior title for the first time having claimed titles from national to world level as a junior fighter.
“This fight is under semi-pro rules and will suit Damien,” says his father and coach, Cathal.
“He put out one of the best 72kg fighters in Ireland, Glen Power, within two minutes. We’re really looking forward to this weekend’s fight.”
Thompson hails from the renowned Leicester Kickboxing and arrives in Derry as something of an unknown quantity for the Duddy camp, who have been eager for their man to get a match – hence the move up in weight.
“We offered a fight to everyone at the lower weight, but we couldn’t get anyone to take the match,” Cathal Duddy says. “Damien has incredible power at the new weight. He’s very comfortable at this range and we believe he’ll be unstoppable.”
Saturday’s show in the White Horse Hotel by Mayhem Promotions begins at 7pm with doors open from 6.30. Admission is £20 for adults with under-16s £10.
[adrotate group=”46″]Damien’s brother, William, is also in action for a title on Saturday night while there is an eagerly-anticipated contest between Mayhem’s Luke McCrudden and Paul McNamee, fighting out of Peak Physique Kickboxing, Letterkenny.
McNamee is an unbeaten fighter under the guidance of Abdul El Absy and this bout at 86kgs is another to whet the appetite.
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