John Duddy vs Walid Smichet *WAR!* [23-02-2008] #boxing #boxeo #usa #ireland

Ireland’s always exciting John Duddy [23-0] aims to keep his unbeaten record intact at the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden, as he goes up against the game Tunisian, “Tempete de Sable“ Walid Smichet [17-3-3]. John Duddy maintained his perfect record with a points win over Walid Smichet in New York, though victory came at a price for the Irishman. In what was meant to be a warm-up fight ahead of a summer showdown with WBC/WBO Middleweight King, Kelly “The Ghost“ Pavlik, Duddy struggled to a split decision over the Tunisian. He also suffered severe cuts around his eyes, meaning a June date with the unified middleweight champion will have to be shelved, for the time being at least. Montreal-based Smichet opened up a nasty gash above his opponent’s left eye with one of a number of right hands that found the target. Despite the injury, Duddy was awarded the bout 98-92 by two judges, with the third scoring the 10-round bout a 95-95 draw. #boxing #boxeo #usa #ireland