Dungiven boxer Paul “Dudey” McCloskey’s return to the ring last night ended in a shock defeat.
Paul “Dudey” McCloskey.
The 34-year-old light-welterweight was defeated on 77-75 points decision by Dave Ryan of Derby who recovered from a fourth round knockdown to win the fight.
It was McCloskey’s first fight since September last year and he appeared to be on his way to making it a winning return when he floored his 30-year-old opponent with a right hand to the body in the fourth round.
However, Ray, trained by former British heavyweight title challenger Clifton Mitchell, picked himself up from the canvass and fought back for the narrow win.
McCloskey’s corner were not happy with the decision which now sees the McCloskey’s record stand at three defeats in 27 professional fights.
Last night’s fight was on the undercard of Stuart Hall’s and South African Vusi Malinga clash for the vacant IBF bantamweight title in the First Direct Arena in Leeds.
