SA judge for Japan fight
Hotz at ringside for Budler’s bout
Veteran SA boxing ring official Neville Hotz has been confirmed as one of the three judges for the history-making match between former IBO and WBA super mini flyweight and IBO junior flyweight holder Hekkie “Hexecutioner” Budler and WBA and IBF champion Ryoichi Taguchi in Tokyo, Japan, on May 20.
The 66-year-old Hotz – who was voted IBF Africa official of the year in 2016 – has been in boxing since 1997.
Hotz has represented South Africa in Namibia, Germany, France, Thailand and London.
“This appointment is my first to Japan. I am excited, but actually I am excited to go wherever boxing takes me,” he said yesterday.
Hotz officiated in the WBC International vacant featherweight championship fight between newly crowned champ Lerato Dlamini and Sydney Maluleke at Emperors Palace.
Boxing SA chief executive Cindy Nkomo said: “It is a great opportunity for Neville to showcase his skills once again in the international platform. I know he is very excited about it.”
Trainer Colin Nathan – who is in charge of both Budler and Dlamini – said: “I requested one judge from South Africa and the IBF granted my request. I am relieved.”
Budler and his stable mate Ryno Liebenberg have lost recent away bouts.
The winner between 29year-old Budler and the 31year-old dual world champion from Japan will also take home the Ring Magazine belt.