Efren “Bata” Reyes promised to put on a show when he sees action in the WNT Legends starting tomorrow at the Gateway Mall in Cubao.

Still looking young and sharp at 71, the cue legend known as “The Magician” said he will pull out a lot of magic tricks against his longtime rival Earl “The Pearl” Strickland in the three-day spectacle that is expected to dazzle billiard fans from all over the world.

Aside from Reyes and Strickland, pool legends Francisco “Django” Bustamante and Ralf “The Kaiser” Soquet of Germany are also set to compete in the event put up by Matchroom Pool and Puyat Sports led by its president, Aristeo “Putch” Puyat, who is also the chief of the Billiards and Snookers Congress of the Philippines.

“It should be a beautiful match. Many fans, especially the younger generation, have been waiting for this rematch,” Reyes told DAILY TRIBUNE during his visit to its headquarters recently.

“People from other countries wanted to see it happen again.”

Reyes said he tries to stay sharp as he will be relying on his vast experience and technique that he developed in his more than six decades of playing.

“Now, I’m older. My eyes aren’t as sharp, and my body isn’t the same, but I still try to focus when I play,” Reyes said. “Talent alone isn’t enough. You need to be in good condition and take care of your health.”

Reyes has been one of the shining beacons of Philippine sports.

In fact, he has been a staple in billiards and has won multiple accolades, including the very memorable The Color of Money event in 1996, where as he came back from a 17-rack deficit to post a 120-117 victory over Strickland.

Reyes said he is facing his bitter nemesis one last time because he wants to leave a good impression on the youth, especially those who are starting to pick up the sport.

“Honestly, I don’t understand why I’m being called a legend. There are many great players now. I’m just grateful that they still remember me,” Reyes said.

“I don’t really know how Filipinos should remember me. I just hope the kids feel inspired. For me, it’s not about being a legend — it’s about Filipino pride.”