Cataraja thankful for chance to fight for regional title

AFTER Kevin Jake “KJ” Cataraja graduated last year from his criminology course, he had one thing left on his mind: to become a world boxing champion.

On November 24, the undefeated Cataraja of the famed ALA Boxing Gym will take a step closer to fulfilling that dream as he will figure in his first regional title fight.

The proud son of Cebu will go up against Victor Hugo Reyes of Mexico for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Youth Super Flyweight Title, which is one of the triple WBO title matches of Pinoy Pride 45 at the International Eucharistic Center in Cebu City.

The 24-year-old rising Cebuano boxing prospect will fight for a title for the first time in his career, and instead of feeling pressured, he feels the opposite.

“I was very happy when I found out that they will let me fight for a title because that’s what I really dreamed of. Now that I got the opportunity, I will make sure that I won’t let everyone down especially my promoter, my trainers and my family,” said Cataraja. “I asked my promoter for this title and I am so thankful that he gave me the chance to fight for it.”

Cataraja is treating this fight as a big test for him, that is if he really is a boxer fit to become a world champion. Otherwise, he plans to pursue another career, and that is to become a police officer.

“Mexicans are very good boxers and must not be taken lightly. My opponent will surely measure my ability and what level I am at right now, when it comes to my skills,” added Cataraja.

He holds a record of eight wins with seven knockouts without a loss and draw while Reyes sports a record of 9-1-1 (win-loss-draw) with seven knockouts.

Cataraja’s first Mexican opponent was Antonio Rodriguez, whom he won via unanimous decision last 2016 in Cebu City.

Cataraja along with WBO Oriental Super Bantamweight champion Jeo “Santino” Santisima, and “Prince” Albert Pagara are training hard at the ALA Boxing Gym for their respective WBO title bouts.