Rene Catalan. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Numbers don’t lie but don’t be fooled by Rene Catalan’s age.
Catalan is not only going strong at 40 years of age, but he’s also in his best form yet.
Riding on a five-fight winning streak, Catalan aims to show that he’s just getting started when he faces Yoshitaka Naito, a former strawweight world champion, in ONE: Reign of Valor on Friday at Thuwunna Indoor Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar.
“Many believe that the younger generation of athletes have the advantage in terms of learning and adopting things quickly,” Catalan (5-2) said. “But for me, it’s all about your passion and your personal belief that you are better than anyone else.”
“If you are motivated to showcase your talent at any given stage, regardless of your age, you will perform at your best.”
The 34-year-old Naito, who boasts a 13-2 record, will be Catalan’s stiffest challenge yet.
The Japanese strongman’s resumé speaks of the caliber of a fighter he is, having beaten the likes of Joshua Pacio, Alex Silva, and Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke.
Catalan vows to be true to form and he should be if he wants to keep going in his bid to earn a title shot.
“I know how good he is, but I’m also confident with my skills. I’ll be ready and expect me to perform at my very best,” Catalan said.
“I’ll fight like a young and hungry warrior on that night. I always push myself to the limit. Each fight is a chance for me to prove that I’m one of the best.”