Six-time world champion Hector ‘Hekkie’ Budler is devastated after his fight against Tanzanian boxer Hamidu Kwata was cancelled on Friday – a day before they squared up as scheduled.
Kwata, who was a last-minute replacement, failed to make the weight at an official weigh-in at the fight venue Graceland Casino, Secunda, Mpumalanga,
on Friday. This was going to be the main bout of the TLB Boxing Promotions tournament, which is supported by the Mpumalanga Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.
“Unfortunately, my fight has been cancelled due to my opponent not making weight after being given additional time to pull the weight,” Budler said.
“I am extremely disappointed, but the rules will not allow the fight to go ahead. I would like to again thank everyone who stood behind me. I hope to be back in the ring soon.”
Kwata was a last minute replacement after his countryman Muhsin Kizota pulled out of the Budler fight following positive COVID-19 results. This a big blow to Budler as he needed to shake off ring rust as he has not fought since he lost to Japanese boxer Hiroto Kyoguchi in December 2018.
Earlier this week, South African female flyweight champion Noxolo Makhanavu withdrew from her title defence against Simangele Hadebe after she collapsed while jogging with her brother Xola Sifama in East London on Tuesday.
With the Budler-Kwata fight having fallen by wayside, now Xolisani ‘Nomeva’ Ndongeni’s clash against Malawian boxer Byson Gwayan is going to be the main bout.
Other fights:
Eight rounders:
Junior-welterweight:
Xolani Mgidi v Siya Mabena
Female flyweight:
Melissa Muller v Simangele Hadebe
Four rounders:
Lightweight:
Talent Baloi (SA) v Sando Jackson (Malawi)
Junior-featherweight:
Ayabonga Cekiso v Skhumbuzo Ximba
Bantamweight:
Arnel Lubisi v Sikelela Jama
