Johannesburg - Hekkie Budler hopes 2017 brings him early success when he fights Filipino Joey Canoy at Emperors Palace on February 4.

The straw-weight’s fight with Canoy will only be the second for Budler since his upset decision loss to Byron Rojas last March. His opponent, however, has won his last two fights - recently knocking out unbeaten Toto Landero.

“I don’t know much about Canoy, haven’t seen any of his fights but I am expecting a very hard fight and I think he is a good puncher so I’m going have to be at my best,” Budler said.

Budler says the loss to Rojas still upsets him: “I just had to look at myself and sort out what was wrong and I did it,”

Budler says the move up to the division hasn’t had a significant impact on him but hopes it brings increased punching power.

Canoy’s trainer, Brix Flores said they are expecting a very tough fight against South African Budler but are confident of victory.

IN OTHER NEWS: Tickets are now on sale for Lenny Daws’ EBU European Super-Lightweight title showdown against Anthony Yigit for the rescheduled date of Saturday 11th February at the Westcroft Leisure Centre, Carshalton.

The British fight hero headlines the Hennessy Sports event titled ‘EuroFighter’ and aims to finally win the prestigious belt on his third attempt when he takes on the undefeated Swedish star Yigit.
 
Members of the public who have purchased tickets that have the original event date of Saturday 17th December printed on them are advised that they will REMAIN VALID for the new date and can be handed in for entry to the venue on the day.
 
“Lightning” Daws, a former two-time EBU European Union and British Champion, is renown for his all-action and thrilling style and is now fired-up to put on the best performance of his career in the biggest fight of his life.

An action-packed undercard featuring some of the best up-and-coming talents in the sport will be announced shortly.

Tickets, priced at £40 and £100 can be purchased through Ticketmaster online at: http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/35005172B612815C or by phone on 0844 844 0444

Doors will open at 5.30pm, first fight is at 6pm. The last entry time for the public is 8pm.