MANILA – Retirement has not yet crossed the mind of Ilonggo Rene “The Challenger” Catalan as he still has a goal to achieve as a mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter.
Now 41, the Santa Barbara-Iloilo native revealed that he aspires to become a world champion in the ONE Championship first before planning what’s next for him.
“A lot of athletes my age are already retired, but I have a different mindset,” Catalan said. “I have a goal, and I plan to do everything in order to get back on track. I hope to make it happen.”
The Ilonggo actually had the chance to fulfill his dream during ONE: Masters of Fate in November of 2019 but fell short against fellow Filipino and ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio.
Catalan, who racked up six straight victories before the world title match, said that the defeat against Pacio gave him the determination to continue his MMA career.
“It’s no secret that it’s my dream to become a world champion in MMA, which is why I give my best every fight. The truth is the loss only motivated me to do better and work my way up once again. It’s not the end of it,” said the Ilonggo.
He added: “I am even more inspired now to take the top spot and earn another shot at a world title. It won’t be any easier, but I plan to eradicate everything that is standing in my way.”/PN
