“Change my family’s life” - Jacob Smith shares his biggest motivation to pull off monumental upset vs. Rodtang

Jacob Smith knows that a win at ONE 169 could change his and the lives of his family forever.

After going toe-to-toe with 'The Bosnian Menace' Denis Puric in his last outing, the British standout will attempt to do what no man has done before and unseat Rodtang Jitmuangnon from the ONE flyweight Muay Thai throne.

Smith will meet 'The Iron Man' for the second time in his career when Rodtang puts his 26 pounds of gold on the line at ONE 169 on Friday, Nov. 8 inside the legendary Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

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Rodtang vs. Smith will be one of four can't-miss ONE world title clashes airing live on Amazon Prime Video.

Speaking with Combat Sports Today ahead of the biggest fight of his career, Smith recognizes that a win over 'The Iron Man' will open the door to fame, fortune, and opportunity:

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"You know, I have the ability to change my family's lives with this one fight. But in terms do I feel pressure of the stadium? No I don’t. I don’t feel any of that kind of pressure."

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ONE 169 will host the second-ever meeting with Smith and Rodtang—the first coming more than two years ago at ONE 157 in May 2022.

On that night, 'The Iron Man' bloodied and battered the Brit for three rounds to score a dominant decision victory.

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In the time since Smith has gained experience and is confident he'll be a much smarter fighter when he heads back to the Mecca of Muay Thai. He added:

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"So yeah, I’m prepared for whatever Rodtang throws. In terms of me, you’re just going to see a bit more finesse in my work and a little bit more of a smarter fighter."

Fans in the United States and Canada can watch ONE 169: Malykhin vs. ‘Reug Reug’ live on Amazon Prime Video on Friday, Nov. 8 in U.S. primetime.

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