Hekkie Budler, a SuperSport staple for 15 years, will try and turn the clock back this weekend when he fights dangerous Edwin Soto in a championship eliminator in Mexico (SS Variety 1, 4.45am Sunday).
Having won his first major title 10 years ago, the South African has operated at the highest level ever since, winning a stream of titles and recognition as his country’s No 1 fighter.
But at 34 he is one of the oldest boxers in the light-flyweight division with younger, faster talents all looking to bust him up as they seek similar glory.
Budler won’t be daunted by having to fight in faraway Mexicali, where the judges won’t do him any favours, much less a baying crowd who will pack the Palenque Fex arena.
He’s fought many times overseas, although it is telling that two of his four career losses came on the road, most notably in Macau four years ago when Hiroto Kyoguchi had his number and wrested the WBA title from him.
Budler knows that this is most likely his final push for a major title. If he gets past Soto, he will be mandated as the official challenger for World Boxing Council champion Kenshiro Teraji. But if he loses it will be a long road back, one he may not have the stomach to endure given his age and the wear and tear on his body.
“It’s always tough at this level, but we’ve prepared well,” said trainer Colin Nathan. “Soto is no fool, but we’ve studied him and he’s not unbeatable. Hekkie’s experience is key: he won’t stop coming.”