Robin “The Ilonggo” Catalan is wrapping up another fruitful training camp and feels confident as he heads into the ONE Championship Circle for the second time this year.
The IFMA Muay Thai World Champion will face Pongsiri “The Smiling Assassin” Mitsatit in a three-round mixed martial arts bout at ONE: WARRIORS OF LIGHT, which emanates from the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, 10 May.
Knowing the danger that Mitsatit will be bringing to the strawweight encounter, Catalan had all the bases covered in training to make sure he enters Bangkok well-equipped for the Thai’s challenge.
“I know that Mitsatit won’t be an easy opponent — that’s why I am definitely going all-out in training,” he said.
“I will go toe-to-toe with him. With the way I prepared, I am ready for whatever he brings to the table.”
Despite their similarities in martial arts backgrounds, the 28-year-old believes he still has the upper hand if they stick to striking.
While not totally ignoring Mitsatit's other tools inside the ONE Circle, Catalan believes the Thai’s willingness to trade with him on the feet will be his advantage.
“We know his striking is top-notch and who knows, his ground game might have improved,” the Manila resident acknowledged.
“But I am confident that I have an advantage when it comes to [fighting on] the feet. We’ll be using his own offense against him. That’s the plan.”
Confident of his strengths, Catalan plans to shut down the hometown hero and avoid getting the crowd involved in the match-up.
“I know I am the stronger of the two, and I’m more determined to get this win,” the Filipino said. “I’m looking to dominate every round and go for the knockout if there’s a chance.”