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Cape Town - South Africa's Hekkie Budler, the WBA and IBO minimumweight champion, made a successful title defence against Mexico's Jesus Silvestre with an unanimous points decision on Saturday night at Salle des Étoiles in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
It was Budler's third consecutive appearance at the Monte Carlo venue and this victory stretched his winning streak to 11 fights over a four-year period. The 26-year-old Budler, ringnamed 'The Hexecutioner' improved his pro fight career record to 28 wins, 9 by knock-out, and 1 defeat.
The 25-year-old Silvestre's record now stands at 30 wins, 22 by KO, and 6 defeats.
Although one of the three judges gave Budler the verdict by six points the fight appeared far closer and by the time the 12th and final round dawned it was not obviously clear who would be the eventual winner.
As usual, Budler was a slow starter and Silvestre looked like he had done enough to shade his opponent in the first three rounds. In the second round, South African referee Stanley Christodoulou penalised Silvestre for a low blow.
Over the next few rounds, Budler relied on a strong counter-punching display to keep his hopes alive and he appeared to be landing the more punches.
For most of the way, Budler was forced on the back foot but his superb defence, coupled with timely bobbing and weaving, saw him home throughout the middle rounds and with two rounds remaining he looked like he had done enough to retain his titles, provided he could stay out of trouble over the rest of the bout.
As the final two rounds wound its course, both fighters stepped up their work rate appreciably but Bulder proved to be the more accurate and smarter.
