They call him ‘The Iron Man’. Rodtang Jitmuangnon is considered one of the most formidable fighters in combat sports.
This Muay Thai icon is a world-class striker, renowned for his incredible resilience. He is famous for his unwavering chin, often dropping his guard to invite opponents’ attacks while taunting them.
However, British underdog Jacob Smith is determined to prove that even ‘the man who can’t be beat’ can be defeated. This highly anticipated match will be available live on Saturday morning.
Smith from Birkenhead has faced Rodtang before in 2022, resulting in a loss. This weekend, he gets a rematch against Rodtang in a five-round battle for the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world championship. Due to Rodtang missing weight, the title is only at stake for Smith.
Smith is confident in his ability to overcome the crowd favorite in Bangkok’s Lumpinee stadium.
‘Win the biggest prize in Muay Thai in the biggest stadium in Muay Thai,’ Smith stated. ‘Everyone expects me to lose. I thrive on that.’
‘I’m eager to prove everyone wrong.’
‘When I achieve victory, I can transform my family’s future,’ he added.
‘I believe he’s perceived as invincible. The Iron Man. And he truly embodies that title. He lives up to his reputation.’
‘But I’m here to dethrone him.’
Smith understands that Rodtang will see him as a serious challenger.
‘He didn’t underestimate me in our first fight. He was serious and didn’t showboat, which is what I expect again. Because if he does, he’s in for a surprise,’ the Briton mentioned.
‘My first fight at that level was against the absolute best in my weight class. My debut in ONE Championship, my first fight away from home – it was a series of firsts for me.’
‘Looking back to our 2022 fight, it probably wasn’t the ideal timing for me to face him, but I took the challenge. He was respectful then, and it would be foolish for him to underestimate me now.’
‘It’s not just about toughness; it’s about skill.’
‘I have an exciting fighting style. I fight to win and to entertain,’ Smith concluded. ‘I’ll bring that again, but with more patience, improved fight intelligence, and smarter tactics.’
‘I believe in myself against anyone my size on this planet.’
‘I’m coming to cause a major upset.’
