ONE Strawweight contender Rene “The Challenger” Catalan is confident that he is the rightful contender to compatriot Joshua “The Passion” Pacio for his ONE Strawweight World Title.
Pacio, who successfully reclaimed his ONE Strawweight crown after knocking out Yosuke “The Ninja” Saruta of Japan at ONE: ROOTS OF HONOR in Manila last April, still has no scheduled opponent for his first title defense in his second reign.
On the other hand, Catalan worked his way to the upper echelon of the 56.7-kilogram weight class and had made his case as one of the most deserving names to challenge for the World Title.
In his last outing, the 40-year-old collected his sixth straight victory after dominating former ONE Strawweight World Champion Yoshitaka “Nobita” Naito of Japan towards a first round TKO win at ONE: REIGN OF VALOR in Yangon, Myanmar last March.
After the win, Catalan believes he has done enough to finally earn a World Title shot having won impressive wins against top opposition for the last two and a half years.
“I think my previous performances would prove that I am the rightful challenger for the belt. Winning six straight is more than enough to be the number one contender,” Catalan said.
“I respect ONE Championship and I know they consider me as challenger. I just have to be patient.
"The Challenger" shared that he is ready to face his compatriot anytime, anywhere. The Filipino veteran even suggests that he and Pacio can do it at ONE: CENTURY in Tokyo this 13 October, or as a treat to their hometown fans in Manila at ONE: MASTERS OF FATE on 8 November.
“I am ready to fight anytime. After my win in Yangon last March, I am training a lot harder knowing that I can be called on to fight for a World Title anytime,” the former Asian Games gold medallist shared.
“I hope that I can be included in the Tokyo card or in the last event of ONE here in Manila.”
While waiting for his time to get a crack at the crown, Catalan’s focus is solely on sharpening his martial arts tools.
The Iloilo native, who turns 41 on 12 December, believes his time will eventually come. Knowing that he isn’t getting any younger, the Catalan Fighting System founder looks forward to winning the ONE Strawweight World Title before the year ends.
“I know I am not getting younger. I’m thankful that at my age, I still get to compete in a high level in MMA,” Catalan said.
For the outspoken Catalan, it’s all about making the most out of the things that swing his way.
“I will maximize every opportunity and I will do everything to become a champion before I retire”
