Golden Gloves has delivered again!
The promotions company announced this morning that former dual world champion Hekkie Budler will make his comeback against dangerous tyro Siyabonga Siyo.
The pair will comprise the chief undercard fight for the “Super Four” final on October 22.
Budler was last in action in March, losing his titles after an uncharacteristically below-par performance against Byron Rojas. Up to that point he had reigned as SA’s number one pound-for-pound boxer and looked bullet-proof at the weight.
Siyo is a chancy choice of opponent given his hyper-movement and angles, which he put to good effect against Simphiwe Khonco recently. His inexperience counted against him that night, but he resolved to come back a better fighter. Indeed, he looks very capable of giving Budler fits.
The big question mark with Budler isn’t his ability to fight, but rather his mental state. Does he still have the hunger to fight at this level? Is he prepared to work his way back to championship status?
This fight will tell us much.
“Hekkie has been a loyal boxer for many years,” explained promoter Rodney Berman. “He had an off night which cost him, but I’m convinced he has plenty more to give. Siyo stepped up in a big way against Khonco. He’s definitely one for the future, which is why he’s getting this chance.”
Berman added that although both are rated in the top 10 of the WBA at minimumweight, the fight would be at catchweight.
The contest adds real ballast to the tournament, which is headlined by a captivating cruiserweight fight between Kevin Lerena and Micki Nielsen.
