Golden Gloves

*An open letter to Hekkie Budler ahead of his vacant IBO world junior flyweight title bout against Juanito Rubillar at Emperors Palace on February 27*

From the time I saw you in action, I had definite reservations about you fighting left-handed boxers (southpaws). Call it instinct…or the experience gleaned from over thirty-five-years as a professional analyst. But as an observer from the safe side of the ropes, I humbly believe that southpaws are essentially counter-punchers and they generally enjoy boxing against fighters who plough forward relentlessly, seeking dividends with right-handed purchases, which –according to tradition – is the best way to whip a lefty.

Well, since Juanito Rubillar is a southpaw, let me burst a few bubbles…and in doing so…expose a few myths regarding left-handers, who contrary to common belief are not ALWAYS susceptible to overhand rights. Indeed the late Charlie Weir learned that painful lesson when he was knocked “cold” by southpaw Tap Tap Makhatini, who still figures as having been one of the deadliest hitters in the annals of SA boxing.

What’s more, any ‘experienced’ orthodox fighter will inform you that a southpaw is the one breed of fighter who can readily knock you out with an UPPERCUT!

Moreover their stock in trade punch –against orthodox boxers – is normally a counter LEFT HOOK (besides the uppercut) and methinks that you have to utilize a varied approach in this world championship challenge if you foster a realistic hope of upsetting the battle-hardened, vastly experienced Filipino, whose 11 years your senior and has a respected resume of 48-13-7, which includes kudos as the OPBF champion as well as a lofty WBC junior flyweight world ranking.

Yes, overseas boxing “intelligentsia” have installed Rubillar as the favourite ahead of this potentially explosive fight and though that news will no doubt be met with gasps of amazement from your fans in Gauteng, it’s hardly surprising when you compare your respective ring  records.

So what, young Hekkie, do you have to do different if you are to emerge as the new IBO world junior flyweight titleholder on the night of February 27?

First and foremost…and despite trainer Colin Nathan’s earnest endeavors to secure you the best physical conditioners and dieticians at his disposal, as well as the priceless advice of the iconic Baby Jake Matlala, I agree with Hall of Famer Brian Mitchell that you have to somewhat restructure your battle plan…placing far more emphasis on double left hooks and a SHORT jarring, right cross. Not, mind you, the fabled overhand right, which could be suicidal in the early rounds of what promises to be a protracted war. Then too, Hekkie you have to maintain your work ethic and move your head a lot more on the INSIDE once you gain sufficient momentum.

As many other analysts do, I have always admired your courage and incredible stamina, and I’ve no doubt that you will once again operate as you always do, fierce, girt and unafraid and while those are admirable traits in anyone’s language, you must –above all else – remember to PACE yourself! That in a nutshell could be the key to this fight! Good luck son!