CLEARLY two of the three local judges who voted Hekkie "Hexecutioner" Budler as the points winner over Juanito Rubillar were biased in their scoring of the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) fight.

CLEARLY two of the three local judges who voted Hekkie "Hexecutioner" Budler as the points winner over Juanito Rubillar were biased in their scoring of the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) fight.

This because the hierarchy of the IBO have ruled that Budler, who won the then vacant belt in a majority points decision, must defend against the Filipino.

Judges Lulama Mtya and Deon Dwarte's respective scorecards read 117-113 and 115-113 in Budler's favour, while Isaac Tshabalala declared it a draw at 114-114.

Rubillar appealed against the decision on his arrival back home and judging by the IBO's response, he had a valid case.

Golden Gloves fight publicist Terry Pettifer said the decision to grant Rubillar a rematch was taken after an in- depth discussion between promoter Rodney Berman and Ed Levine, president of the IBO.

Pettifer said the showdown would take place at Emperors Palace, the venue for the first fight, on June 18.

"Both GGP and the IBO have recommended that a rematch take place in order for the result to be free of contention," said Pettifer. "Not that we are questioning the credibility of the three ringside judges, but since all three were South Africans, and the contest was fought at such a sizzling pace, it's perhaps understandable that there would be allegations of home-town bias."

Fight fans were divided in their opinions. Some said it was a deserved victory for Budler, who showed the heart of lion, others made it clear that Rubillar was robbed while a small section said Budler had to win in order for the IBO to continue conducting its business in South Africa.

Budler is currently the only genuine IBO holder here while other local fighters hold international, youth and African belts.

The fight on February 27 was a close affair.