http://www.datruthboxing.com/blog.cfm/post/john-duddy-retires/ I dunno... I think he just needed more time off after that loss before getting right back in with Lee....if Andy Lee somehow won that fight which was possible.. Duddy was done and it would have propelled Lee as a serious player in a Middleweight division which at least belts ups for grabs and a few solid paydays ahead.
He is retired. The guy fought at least 6 hard WAR fights and bled like crazy in every match. He knew he'd gone as far as he ever was going to go in the sport I think the Lee fight made him realize he should retire rather than become an opponent. He had to know that Lee was the hot fighter and that he was essentially being expected to lose. Duddy was never going to be champion, but he had never gone into a fight as an opponent for anyone. He can retire knowing he beat a lot of men, he fought at a world ranked level, and he isnt fighting for money or because he is delusional. I think his decision was very admirable, I wish more fighters did the same
He may fight club fighters for paychecks in a couple years. But as far as having his sights on "being the best," "being a world champ," or "taking on top 20 contenders", yes I believe he is retired.
x2 And just to add to that - a fighter does not have to be champion to entertain his fans. Ever heard of Mickey Ward & Arturo Gatti! Duddy always did his best and tried for the fans. In fact it was trying to please his fans too much that led to his downfall in the first place. Was a hero as far as boxing is concerned.
I give a **** about boxing, and even if John Duddy didnt have elite potential he was always a great watch. **** you.
Duddy shouldn't have had his style altered. I respect he wanted to go for a title but he was an exciting mother****er, and he should of just been left to fight the way he did.
