Boxing fans who were in need of more sporting action headed for Emperors Palace on Saturday June 19 for an evening jam packed with thrilling boxing action.

“Sports fans who were looking for a little diversion from 2010 Fifa World Cup action were dazzled by five excellent bouts at the “Blockbuster” Boxing Tournament that was held at Emperors Palace, the home of boxing this Saturday 19 June. Sparks flew with four IBO, one Africa and three world title fights on the bill, and the who’s who of the boxing world braved the cold to be part of the non-stop action.

Of particular interest was the second fight of the night when all eyes were on the rematch between two talented young boxers  - Juanito Rubillar and Hekkie Budler. The two squared up against each other in an IBO Junior Flyweight title fight scheduled for 12 rounds. The night was the “Blockbuster” it had promised to be with many a suprising result.

Juanito Rubillar (left) vs Hekkie Budler 

Bout 1

Opening the proceedings was Ronelle Ferreras of the Philippines who took on South Africa ’s Gideon Buthelezi in an IBO Minimum Weight World Title fight scheduled for 12 rounds. What a cracker of an opener it was,as Gideon Buthelezi won on points over Ronelle Ferreras from Philippines.

Gideon Buthelezi (right) vs  Ronelle Ferreras

Bout 2

After a close points decision earlier this year boxing fans were looking for a “Blockbuster” fight when South Africa’s IBO Junior Flyweight World Champion, Hekkie “The Hex-ecutioner” Butler  went into the ring against the experienced Juanito Rubillar of the Philippines for a rematch on Saturday evening, June 19 at Emperors Palace. The 21-year-old South African was ready to prove that he deserved victory in his previous encounter with Rubillar. The face off proved a tough and exciting one. The bout, through a split decision, was taken by Hekkie Budler in a fight that lasted all 12 rounds.(Photograph by Peter Morey)
   

Bout 3

South African heavyweight boxing sensation, Flo Simba, who had an easy TKO win in his last bout at Emperors Palace in February met fellow countryman, Elvis Moyo during  the “Blockbuster” Tournament at Emperors Palace on Saturday evening, June 19. On the cards were also three world title bouts and one Africa title fight.  Flo Simba proved victorious by unanimous decision, this time around.

 Elvis Moyo (left) vs Flo Simba 

Bout 4

Young Bongani Dlamini met with opponent Jason Bedeman for a “Blockbuster” of a bout. After 3 rounds of punishment, Bongani Dlamini was defeated through a  Technical Knockout by Jason Bedeman.

  Jason Bedeman (left) vs Bongani Dlamini

Bout 5

Emperors Palace was abuzz with excitement for the last bout. The crowds saw plenty of action, and Michael Bolling was no easy feat to opponent Isaac Chilemba, who pulled out on his experience to be the new IBO Supper Middleweight World champion.

(Photographs by Peter Morey)