Career
This victory was followed up in his first defence on 16 July 2011 with another victory over Watson, this time in Oldham and with another stoppage in the 5th round. Despite starting brightly, Watson began to be worn down in the third round as two heavy shots from Purdy landed. Eventually after Watson was knocked down twice in the 5th, the referee called a halt to the contest.
In what was described by The Sun as "12 thrilling rounds" Purdy lost a majority points decision to Lynes after getting up off the canvas in the 10th to produce a strong finish.
I"m sure everyone who watched enjoyed it and the atmosphere was electric too." On 18 May 2013, Lee Purdy fought Devon Alexander at Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey. The bout was originally scheduled for the IBF Welterweight title but Purdy failed to make the weight. Purdy took the fight at 4 weeks notice after Kell Brook pulled out with a hand injury.
The fight was controversially stopped by Purdys trainer (Darren Barker) in the 7th round, although Purdy was not hurt at any stage throughout the fight and was looking to come on strong in the later rounds. In August 2013 Purdy was charged with money laundering along with five other people in what was believed to be a £1 million scam against elderly people.
He was due to appear at Colchester Magistrates Court in September 2013.
Purdy, as well as the other accused, denied the charges. Lee Purdy was found not guilty by unanimous verdict (jury) of money laundering. He thanked everyone who had supported him via twitter.
His promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the retirement in an interview with iFLTV on 16 February 2015.
