Duddy to fight again in October

Duddy is hoping to get back into the world title picture

Derry boxer John Duddy will make his return to the ring in New York on 10 October after securing his release from promoters Irish Ropes.

Duddy suffered a shock first defeat as a professional when he lost on a split decision to Billy Lyell on April.

That defeat scuppered Duddy's hopes of being handed a world title shot against Kelly Pavlik.

The middleweight has been embroiled in a financial dispute with Irish Ropes since earlier this year.

Duddy claimed that he was owed unpaid earnings and had been denied a world title shot in Belfast.

The Irishman won his opening 26 fights before falling to the shock defeat in April.

His comeback bout against an unnamed opponent will take place at Madison Square Garden, where he has previously fought in front of full houses.

The 30-year-old had carved out a formidable reputation in New York.

In November 2007, Duddy also sold out the Kings Hall on a memorable homecoming to Northern Ireland.

Duddy worked with Irish Ropes on a handshake agreement until three years ago when he signed a promotional contract.

He claimed that the mooted world title fight at the Odyssey Arena falling through was the final straw for him and he initiated court proceedings to split from the company.

Duddy has been guided by Tony and Eddie McLaughlin throughout his professional career but said that the fact that they were promoting and managing as brothers caused a potential conflict.