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After over a year away, Rodtang Jitmuangnon, known as “The Iron Man,” made a triumphant return to his first love Muay Thai at ONE 169. Fighting inside Bangkok’s historic Lumpinee Stadium, the former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion defeated 3rd-ranked Jacob Smith with a unanimous decision. But Rodtang wasn’t just there to prove himself in the ring; he had a bigger goal in mind—a long-awaited showdown with Japanese kickboxing star Takeru Segawa.
Following his victory, Rodtang made his intentions clear. The Thai powerhouse, famous for his relentless style and crowd-pleasing antics, wants Takeru as his next opponent.
“I want to face Takeru first,” Rodtang declared. “Yes, I almost [got into] another match right there in the ring. And I think that it’s time now that I have to face Takeru. And I hope that this is the fight that everybody has been expecting. And hopefully, Chatri [Sityodtong] will give me this fight soon.”
This callout is no surprise to fans who have followed the tension brewing between these two legends. Their names have been linked for over a year, and both Rodtang and Takeru have teased a potential clash. After his impressive return, Rodtang is looking to make up for lost time by taking on Takeru in what could be one of the most thrilling matchups in recent Muay Thai and kickboxing history.
Rodtang’s comeback, however, was not without its challenges. In his previous fight, the six-time champion failed to make weight, resulting in the loss of his flyweight Muay Thai title. The 27-year-old was visibly disappointed but vowed to return even stronger.
“I feel sad that I lost that belt on the scale, but I will keep continuing and get that belt back,” he said. “I will be returning to my throne soon.”
Now, with his options wide open, Rodtang faces a thrilling crossroads. He can either work to regain his Muay Thai title or finally step into the ring with Takeru, a clash that promises fireworks and high stakes. With fans clamoring for this super-fight, the stage is set for Rodtang to cement his legacy, either by reclaiming his title or by settling the score with Takeru once and for all.