Joshua Pacio sees Rene Catalan as a worthy challenger ahead of world title fight

Joshua Pacio and Rene Catalan face off, days before their title bout in Pasay City. PHOTO FROM ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

There is no doubt that Rene Catalan is a worthy challenger to the ONE strawweight world title according to the champ himself, Joshua Pacio.

Catalan and Pacio are set to meet in a historic all-Filipino MMA world title fight in the main event of ONE: Masters of Fate on Friday, November 8 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

"Rene Catalan is a worthy challenger. He’s riding a six-bout winning streak and is full of confidence. I am expecting only the best from him," said Pacio.

"As always, I take this as an opportunity to test my skills. He’s a veteran who has been fighting his whole life. I have also been impressed by his recent performances, especially against Yoshitaka Naito."

Catalan, an Asian and SEA Games gold medalist in wushu, is brimming with confidence ahead of what would be his toughest and most important fight to date.

"I am super confident heading into this matchup. Becoming a mixed martial arts world champion has been a goal of mine for a long time," Catalan stated.

"Now, I have the opportunity to fulfill my dream. I know chances like this don’t come often, so I’m giving this everything I have. I don’t plan on leaving the cage without that belt."

One thing is certain, regardless of the outcome on fight night- the world title will stay in the Philippines. — BAP, GMA News