Robin “The Ilonggo” Catalan has always been looking to improve his grappling, and there is no better time to show it than now.
Catalan battles Cuban wrestling sensation Gustavo “El Gladiador” Balart in an explosive clash of styles at ONE: Masters of Fate at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines on November 8.
Balart comes in with tons of experience in the wrestling world, having won gold medals at the Pan American Games and a silver medal at the World Cup. He also had a quarterfinals stint in the 2012 London Summer Olympics.
If the 29-year-old Filipino can handle his foe’s wrestling, it will speak volumes about Catalan’s ground game.
“I’m really excited for this match. This is where I will prove that I have improved, especially on the ground. We all know about the quality of his wrestling, but I am confident in my skills,” Catalan said.
“His wrestling is really good, so I expect him to be really strong. I know he’s done a lot in his career and I’ll have my hands full.”
Going up against a decorated wrestler like Balart will not be easy for Catalan. He will need to show skill, timing, and patience.
That does not mean he plans to go toe-to-toe with the Cuban in wrestling – he has something else planned for his opponent.
“I’ve been training hard on my wrestling defense while sharpening my striking at the same time. I know it will be a big factor in getting a win against Balart,” Catalan said.
Coming off a first round stoppage loss to Pongsiri “The Smiling Assassin” Mitsatit at ONE: Warriors of Light in May, “The Challenger” is out to end the year with a bang.
“I have a lot of plans next year and I don’t want to end this year with a loss. I’m very excited and ready for this match. I’ll do everything to get that win in front of my compatriots.”
ONE Championship returns this Friday, October 25 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.
Get your tickets here and use the code ‘onewarrior’ for a 20-percent discount.
Watch both shows for free by downloading the ONE Super App.
Read More From ONE Championship:
Pacio Vs. Catalan, Plus Folayang And Stamp Return At ONE: MASTERS OF FATE
Robin Catalan’s Top 3 Performances In ONE Championship
Pongsiri Mitsatit Finishes Robin Catalan In Round 1 With Stunning Knee
