Duddy splits with Turner

28 April 2008 – by Cormac Campbell

Derrys John Duddy has split from trainer Don Turner after just four fights.

The unbeaten middleweight contender will now work with Jermain Taylors former coach, Pat Burns, as he seeks to force a shot with undisputed champion Kelly Pavlik before the end of the year.

It is believed that Duddys poor performance in his bout with Walid Smichet, in which he sustained serious facial cuts, was the catalyst for the split.

In recent fights there has been a noted lack of snap and timing in Duddys work, with critics of Turner arguing that Evander Holyfields former mentors approach to sparring was to blame.

Meanwhile Duddy, who was originally expected to be sidelined until November, could be back in the ring as early as June, with a bout in the Irish stronghold of Boston the likely comeback route.

Reports also indicate that the Derryman has been househunting in ‘The Maiden City’, fuelling speculation that his long-term future, post Pavlik, will be in Ireland.

These rumours have been further tempered by the difficulties Duddys fianc, Grainne, has experienced in getting a Visa to return to New York.