One of the Philippines’ most accomplished martial artists returns at ONE: MASTERS OF FATE for the biggest bout of his career.
On November 8, Rene “The Challenger” Catalan takes on Joshua “The Passion” Pacio for the latter’s ONE Strawweight World Title in what will be a fiery showdown at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.
The 40-year-old has done a lot as a wushu practitioner. He won gold medals in the Asian Games and the Southeast Asian games. But this is certainly the biggest match for him in The Home Of Martial Arts.
“I’m really excited for this match. You all know how I’ve been praying and asking for this title shot. I think I earned this opportunity after winning my past six fights and I will make sure not to waste this,” Catalan said.
Because of his half-dozen straight wins, the veteran martial artist from Iloilo City is arguably the hottest athlete in ONE Championship right now.
In his last bout, “The Challenger” flawlessly defeated former ONE World Champion Yoshitaka “Nobita” Naito at ONE: REIGN OF VALOR in Yangon last March.
Over the years, Catalan has shown massive improvements in his game. He picks his shots and uses his tremendous upper body strength to defend and dominate on the ground.
With his much-awaited World Title shot less than three weeks away, he believes his upgraded skills will help him tremendously.“I respect Joshua Pacio and everything he has done in sports, especially since he is young. But for me, I felt like at my age I am at my peak and it came at the perfect moment because I’m about to fight the World Title,” Catalan said.
“My wushu sanda has been my bread and butter since day one, but if you notice my previous matches, my hard work in the gym has been paying off. I’ve been keeping in step with my opponents whether in ground or in striking.”
Catalan’s opponent is also an accomplished wushu expert and is a fan-favorite in the Philippines. The lone Team Lakay World Champion is known for his highlight-reel victories and thrilling, fast-paced bouts.
Pacio’s unpredictable approach and willingness to go all-out in search of a finish will likely test Catalan, but with tons of experience in martial arts and a careful analysis of his previous bouts, the Filipino veteran thinks he will have the edge.
“I always watch and study his old tapes and I have no doubts that Pacio is really good. But I am confident that I can win,” Catalan said.
“Momentum, experiences and skills – those are my weapons in getting that big win.”
Knowing this might be the last time an opportunity like this comes, Catalan promises to go all-out.
“This could be my last shot in becoming a World Champion, so expect that I’ll give my all.”
“I know I’ll be facing a great champion, but this is my time now. I’m ready to collect my seventh straight win and go home as the new ONE Strawweight World Champion.”
ONE Championship returns this Friday, 25 October with ONE: DAWN OF VALOR at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The main card airs live on ABS-CBN S+A at 9:30pm.
The Home Of Martial Arts then returns to the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines for ONE: MASTERS OF FATE on 8 November.