“He deserves another chance” - Rodtang vouches for Jacob Smith's claim as rightful challenger for his Muay Thai belt
ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon will take on British striker Jacob Smith in a rematch next month. It is something the Thai superstar said his opponent fully deserves considering how the Englishman has evolved as a fighter since their first encounter two years ago.
'The Iron Man' will defend his world title against Smith in the co-headlining match at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Nov. 8 at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. It is a rematch of their flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix quarterfinal joust in May 2022, where the Jitmuangnon Gym standout won by unanimous decision.
Speaking to Sportskeeda MMA in line with his upcoming title defense, Rodtang gave his thoughts on facing Smith anew, highlighting that he has no problem with it as he believes the Bad Company affiliate rightfully earned to have another shot at him.
He said:
"Smith today may not be Smith years ago. I believe everyone evolves into a different person always. He deserves another chance with me."
Rodtang welcomed Smith to ONE Championship on May 20, 2022, at ONE 157 in Singapore but rather rudely as he dominated him on his way to a convincing victory.
Smith, however, bounced back in his next match in December 2023, knocking out Brazilian Walter Goncalves in the opening round. He has since been a steady force in the flyweight Muay Thai division, earning a re-engagement with the Thai champion.
ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug will be aired live and for free in U.S. primetime to North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subsription.
Rodtang looks to capitalize on speed again in rematch with Jacob Smith
Rodtang Jitmuangnon said that he is looking to fully use again what he believes is his speed advantage over Jacob Smith in their rematch at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Nov. 8.
He shared this in an interview with ONE Championship, underscoring that he sees no need to completely deviate from the tack he had in their first encounter two years ago that led him to a convincing win.
The Thai superstar said:
"I think my speed will give me an advantage over him. In our first fight, I fought him with my speed and agility."
In their first encounter, Rodtang dominated Smith throughout their scheduled three-rounder, pummeling the latter with steady and lightning-quick strikes.
ONE 169 will see Rodtang defend the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title for the sixth time. His most recent successful defense came in May last year in the United States, where he knocked out Mexican challenger Edgar Tabares.