Butler (28) has been asked to participate at the Troy Dunn International at Townsville for the second year in a row.

This will see Butler as one of three bullfighters enlisted to ensure the safety of the bullriders as they tackle beasts up to and often over a tonne in weight.

The Troy Dunn International will see Australia’s best take on a team from the Rest of the World.

Ten of Australia’s best riders will face 10 international stars of the sport.

“It is always a huge event up at Jupiters at Townsville,” Butler said.

“I suppose this is like our grand final you could say.

“It is the best of the best and to be asked to be part of it is a huge honour.”

The big $50,000 event is being staged this Friday night.

“It’s always a huge event,” he said.

And it is followed up on Saturday night by another top-level competition, which will feature 40 riders including the 10 international stars and 30 from the Australian PBR Series.

Richard will line up with Dale Spannagle from Rockhampton as part of the bullfighting team.

“Two fighters are in there all the time with each rider helping out where we are needed, while the third watches from afar and is available to move in and make any split second decisions,” he said.

These events start a busy time for Butler, for he will also line up for the Brendan Clarke Invitational at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre on May 30-31.

The two nights of competition carry $40,000 in prizemoney.

“These are three huge events and to be asked to take part is fantastic,” he said.

“You always work towards these kind

of events, I haven’t been able to do many rounds of the PBR this year, so this is

fantastic.”

At 28 he believes he still has many years left in the sport.