The light heavyweight king is back. Ron “Wolverine” Bata, undefeated in his Power Slap career, returns on June 27 at Power Slap 13 in Las Vegas to defend his title against veteran contender Russell Rivero.
After a brief hiatus following his win in Saudi Arabia, Wolverine is hungry to get back in the slap circle and continue his reign.
“It feels good to come back,” Bata told Slap News. “Vegas is where it all started for me in Power Slap, and there’s no better place to defend the strap.”
A Comeback With Purpose
While some thought Wolverine was ready to ride off into the sunset, he reveals his motivation for returning is deeply personal.
“We had some family stuff going on—money, trying to get a new house,” he explained. “I’ve done the math. If I finish out my contract, four or five more matches, I can set us up right. So that’s the goal: win, finish the contract, and provide for my family.”
Respect for Russell Rivero
Wolverine has long admired Rivero, a respected figure in the Power Slap ranks who has yet to receive a title shot.
“He brings a lot of energy and he’s strong,” Bata said. “He’s always looking for the knockout, whether clean or by foul. But I’ve got one goal in mind: put someone up there, get the W, and move on.”
While some might worry about fouls affecting the outcome, Wolverine isn’t too concerned.
“I don’t plan on going three rounds,” he said. “Just like with Byron—I said it wouldn’t go five, and it didn’t. This one probably won’t either.”
Innovation, Evolution, and Experience
Wolverine has impressed fans by constantly evolving his style. From his overhand strike against Darius to matching Austin’s intensity and delivering a surprise finish against Vernon Cathey, he always brings something new.
“I’m always paying attention,” he shared. “A lot of credit goes to JT Tilley, who’s been helping me a ton. But I also watch how people hold themselves on defense. I’m looking for a clean hit. I’m not out there to hurt anyone—I just want the win.”
Beyond the Circle: Family, Faith, and Fun
Bata is grounded not just as an athlete but as a father. Recently, his son’s classmates even asked him for an autograph—though his own kids just see him as dad.
“To them, I’m just dad,” he laughed. “At my boy’s fourth-grade graduation, one of his friends wanted my autograph, and my son kind of rolled his eyes.”
He’s also proud of his custom Wolverine shirt from Headrush.
“I love it—it’s the animal Wolverine, not the X-Men one, and the red, white, and blue colors are awesome,” he said.
What’s Next for Wolverine?
While some wonder if Power Slap 13 could mark the end of his career, Wolverine makes it clear: not yet.
“I’ve got four or five matches left,” he confirmed. “I’ll defend the belt that many times, and then I’m done. I’m not re-signing after this contract, but until then, I’m all in.”
Final Predictions
With mutual respect between the two fighters, Wolverine still expects an early finish.
“I’m a betting man,” he said. “I give us both credit—we can take one—but I’m thinking round two, either way.”
Stay tuned to Slap News for full coverage of Power Slap 13, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes access, and the latest updates on Ron “Wolverine” Bata’s quest to defend his legacy.