After extending his impressive winning streak to five matches in 2018, Rene “The Challenger” Catalan looks to carry over his success to the new year.
The 40-year-old Iloilo City native has won two-straight bouts this year, starting with a second-round stoppage of Chinese prospect Peng Xue Wen at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE last January.
He attained an exceptional follow-up victory this past July, dominating Indonesian rising star Stefer “The Lion” Rahardian to walk away with a unanimous decision win at ONE: REIGN OF KINGS.
Despite being one of the oldest competitors in his bracket, Catalan has turned his doubters into believers as he is now a certified top contender in ONE Championship’s 56.7-kilogram weight class.
With a fruitful 2018 already in the books, Catalan is back in training as he looks to sustain his momentum this coming 2019.
“2018 has been a very challenging year. I always push myself to the limit. Each fight is a chance for me to prove that I’m one of the best,” he stated.
“I always make sure that I’m in tiptop shape. I’m just pushing myself more knowing that 2019 will present more challenges.”
Taking good care of himself has become a habit for the hot-streaking Filipino strawweight, given that physical prime does not last that long and fades away as time passes by.
But for Catalan, his motivation to excel against the young and hungry athletes in his division has been the main reason why he continues to strap on four-ounce gloves.
“Many believe that the younger generation of athletes have the advantage in terms of learning and adopting things quickly. But for me, it’s all about your passion and your personal belief that you are better than anyone else,” he expressed.
If anyone thinks that his best days are in the rearview mirror due to his age, the Multiple-time Wushu World Champion begs to disagree as he is still aiming to reach his peak form.
“If you are motivated to showcase your talent at any given stage, regardless of your age, you will perform at your best,” he said.
