A Perfect Ending at Power Slap XI
After an incredible undefeated run in the light heavyweight division, Ron “Wolverine” Bata capped off his storied career with a devastating knockout victory over Vernon Cathey at Power Slap XI in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
In the post-fight interview, Bata confirmed his retirement, stepping away with a perfect 13-0 record as a light heavyweight and a 15-5 overall record across all weight classes in slap fighting.
“It was an honor to share the stage with Vern,” Bata said. “I had my eyes on him since Season 1 of Road to the Title. I always thought we’d meet in a championship match, and it finally happened here in Saudi Arabia.”
For Wolverine, this was the perfect way to walk away—leaving as a dominant champion rather than waiting until decline set in.
“I didn’t want to be the guy that keeps going until he starts losing,” he admitted. “I wanted to go out on top, and I did.”
Dominating from the Start – A Dream Retirement KO
Bata entered the match with confidence but admitted feeling some nerves in the final hours before stepping on stage.
“I was a little nervous this morning. I talked to my wife, my parents, and my coach, JT. They helped settle me down. I knew this was my last one, and I just had to go out there and win.”
He did just that. Facing one of the most dangerous KO artists in the sport, Wolverine delivered a picture-perfect strike that left Cathey on the canvas, ending the fight in one round.
“That knockout made me feel like I could do this forever,” Bata joked. “But I knew this was it.”
Despite the celebratory moment, Wolverine immediately showed his class by checking on Cathey after the knockout.
“I didn’t like seeing the way he went down. I took a knee right after celebrating because I just wanted to make sure he was okay.”
This is what made Ron Bata not just a champion, but a legend—ferocious in competition, but always showing sportsmanship and respect.
Where Does This Win Rank in His Career?
For a man with so many highlight-reel moments, where does this KO victory stand in his career?
“Second,” Bata said.
His number one career moment? His knockout victory over Darius the Destroyer at Power Slap 1—the match that truly changed the game.
“Beating Darius at Power Slap 1 in front of Dana White was something special. Everybody who grows up fighting dreams of getting in front of Dana, and I got to do that in slap fighting.”
But his final fight against Cathey will always hold special meaning. It was the culmination of years of dominance, dedication, and discipline.
The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division – Who’s Next?
With Wolverine officially retiring, the light heavyweight belt is now vacant. The biggest question: Who will be the next champion?
“I think Russell Rivero is in line for the title,” Bata said. “It’s got to be Russell vs. either Luke Simonds, who won tonight, or Vern, since usually the No. 1 contender doesn’t drop too far.”
Regardless of who claims the title next, Bata plans to stick around the sport in some capacity.
“I’d love to stay involved. Whether it’s coaching, commentary, or helping Power Slap behind the scenes, I’ll be around.”
For the fans, that’s great news.
Final Thoughts – The Wolverine Legacy
Ron “Wolverine” Bata walks away as one of the greatest slap fighters of all time.
- 13-0 at Light Heavyweight
- 15-5 Overall Record
- Power Slap 1 winner over Darius the Destroyer
- Dominant KO victory in his final fight
- True ambassador of the sport
There’s no doubt that when Power Slap eventually creates a Hall of Fame, Ron Bata will be a first-ballot inductee.
From all of us at Slap News, thank you for everything, Wolverine. You set the standard, and your legacy will live on forever.
Who do YOU think should fight for the vacant Light Heavyweight Title? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!