South African star Hekkie Budler, a former two-weight world champion, will return to the ring on May 22.

Budler returns to the ring after being inactive due to various reasons, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which created long stints of inactivity for so many boxers around the world.

Budler will be taking on Jonathan Almacen of the Philippines at the Booysens Boxing Gym.

What makes the newly revamped venue so special is that it's the very place where the former world champion spent his days as an amateur fighter.

For this reason the event is being called “Homecoming”.

Budler will not be the only former champion on the bill as stablemate and former IBO strawweight champion Simpiwe Konkco will be making his comeback to the ring.

Konkco’s last fight was back in October 2019 when he challenged Wanheng Menayothin for the WBC minimumweight strap. He unfortunately could not become the first fighter to beat the great Thai fighter.

The fighter affectionately known as “Chain Reaction” or “Larhastil” takes on former WBA title contender ArAr Andales.

Konkco will be looking to announce himself back on the world stage as he and his trainer Colin Nathan both believe he still has a title run left in him.

Also, South African women’s junior welterweight champion Hedda Wolmarans takes on Raider Muleba in a non-title fight. 

Tristan Truter will be looking to get back to winning ways when he fights Wandile Ndlela, while highly talented Gerald Titus goes up against Sphamandla Manqatha.

Up and coming Talent Baloyi, who has disposed all his opponents so far in the first round, faces Eric Mayamba of the Democratic Republic of Congo.