Cormac Campbell

What chance Duddy-Lee?

The announcement that Andy Lee will fight Antwun Echols at Madison Square Garden on March 16 is a move that should set the ball rolling for the Irishman to push for major honours later in the year.

St Patrick’s Day-themed boxing events have become big business in 'The Big Apple' in recent years, with a cross section of New York’s Irish population – many of whom have little or no interest in boxing - turning out in force.

But it is by performing well on mainstream events like this that legions of fans are won. Legions of fans help create revenue, and in professional boxing revenue creates opportunity.

By fighting on such a card, a good performance against a recognisable, if admittedly shop-worn opponent, is a gilt-edged opportunity for fame and fortune.

The March 16 event is particularly timely as Lee looks to bounce back from a miserable 2008, which saw him lose his unbeaten record to Brian Vera and spend months on the sideline due to deep cuts sustained in a comeback victory over Willie Gibbs.

read blog

New deal to benefit prospects

05 February 2009

This new deal will benefit young prospects.

read blog

Dunne goes for broke

30 January 2009

I was delighted with the news that Bernard Dunne has secured a shot at WBA super-bantamweight champion Ricardo Cordoba on March 21 - but the announcement was tinged with a feeling of concern.

read blog

Duddy back in action

22 January 2009

John Duddy is returning to action next month - not before time.

read blog

Boxing could learn from UFC

15 January 2009

Boxing could learn a few things from UFC in terms of marketing.

read blog

Exciting 2009 in prospect

08 January 2009

I would imagine that with Christmas over a raft of big fights will be announced in the coming weeks as the sport gets back down to business.