Lee all ready to rumble

Limerick southpaw Andy Lee will be targeting his first win of the year when he defends his North American title against the durable Saul Duran in Michigan this evening.

Lee is favourite to beat the Mexican in the main event at the Suburban Collection venue.

A world title tilt is in the offing in June versus Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, and the Limerick middle-weight, who boxes out of the Detroit Kronk, wants to keep ticking over.

“It is important I stay active and maintain my ring fitness. I am looking forward to defending my NABA belt, ” said Lee.

Meanwhile, world No 1 Katie Taylor has had a change of opponent for her bout in Cork’s SilverSprings Hotel on March 30. The world lightweight champ was due to meet American Cashmere Jackson on the St John’s BC hosted show. But Jackson has withdrawn and has been replaced by her USA team-mate Liz Leddy of the Portland BC. Taylor is also due to box in Dungarvan on March 31, the opponent to be confirmed.