Great matchup for both men imo.

For Phillips I think Duddy is a great choice of opponent. His popularity means he'll probably sell out Madision Square Garden and Philips will make more money from this fight than he would fighting one of the other world champs like Alcine or Mora. Duddy is a big money spinner for Phillips and a beatable opponent. Great choice.

For Duddy, Phillips represents a world title shot, and realistically probably his best chance to pick up a belt. Mora is probably too slick and Duddy has frankly no chance against Pavlik or Abraham at 160 lbs.

There's not really much of a downside for Duddy either imo, if he were to lose then he could always blame the weight and move back up, plus he's such a popular fighter with the Irish Americans that a loss won't do much to harm his career. People know he's not a world beater, but like Gatti he's exciting, has a ton of heart and a fanbase that just love to see him fight and support their Irish hero.

It's a win win for both fighters imo.