Robin Catalan promises to ‘raise the banner’ for Catalan Fighting System

In his last outing, Robin “The Ilonggo” Catalan captivated fans in Manila with a highlight-reel knockout of Gustavo “El Gladiador” Balart. 

Catalan now gets the chance to build on that momentum against Ryuto “Dragon Boy” Sawada at the previously recorded ONE Championship: Unbreakable III, which took place at the Singapore Indoor Stadium but airs on Friday, February 5.

While he is not revealing anything specific, his goal is to pick up where he left off – and do so in impressive fashion. 

“This is a very important fight for me because I want to break into the top contenders of the strawweight division,” Catalan said. “This is for my family, my loved ones, and, of course, my team.”

“God knows what will happen, but getting another knockout win is the plan.”

Victory for Catalan, however, may come hard. 

The Japanese athlete is fresh off a win over Miao Li Tao at ONE: Reign of Dynasties II and he will also be looking to carry his winning momentum into the circle. 

With that said, Catalan believes Sawada’s ground skills make him a dangerous challenger. Out of 12 wins, 7 have come by submission, making him one tricky grappler.  

“Sawada is a really, really tough opponent. He’s good on the ground and that’s my main focus heading into this match,” Catalan said. “My advantage over him, I think, is my striking.”

Catalan won’t lack motivation heading into this match, though. He not only wants to join his brother, Rene “The Challenger” Catalan, in the strawweight rankings, but he also wants to lift the team’s spirits after a tumultuous ending to 2020.  

“I am so determined to win because I want to bounce back for my team. I want to raise the banner of [Catalan Fighting System],” Catalan said.  

“Fans can expect a really good scrap in this match. I will give my all in this match, all for the Philippines!” – Rappler.com