However, the middleweight could yet challenge WBC world title holder Kelly Pavlik next year if agreement is reached to stage the fight.

Earlier this week, Duddy's management denied reports that the Derry boxer had already signed a deal to fight Pavlik.

However, negotiations are taking place and a 26 January date in Atlantic City has been mentioned in the US boxing press.

After his win on Saturday night, Duddy gave credit to his young opponent whom he described as "a brave customer".

"I had to be professional and do my job and have been working with Don Turner.

"I eventually followed his instructions in the second round but I am still a work in progress."

Unbeaten Dungiven welterweight Paul McCloskey recorded his 13th straight win by stopping Polish journeyman Dariusz Snarski in the sixth round of their contest.

Lurgan man Stephen Haughian, a stablemate of McCloskey, enjoyed an early stoppage over Thomas Hengstberger to continue his impressive rise through the professional ranks.