"He got dropped for the count" - Jacob Smith looking to take a page out of Superlek's book in rematch with Rodtang
Third-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender Jacob Smith paid close attention to how Superlek Kiatmoo9 bested Rodtang Jitmuangnon in the 'Muay Thai Fight of the Century' last year.
The British slugger will meet 'The Iron Man' for a second time and challenge him for the flyweight Muay Thai world title at ONE 169 on Nov. 8.
To pull off arguably one of the biggest upsets in the sport, Smith took some pointers from the reigning two-division and two-sport world champion Superlek.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Smith addressed 'The Kicking Machine's controversial knockdown against his fellow Thai superstar in round two of their incredible showdown at ONE Friday Fights 34.
To this day, some pundits believe Rodtang merely slipped and shouldn't have gotten the knockdown, which ultimately swayed the decision in Superlek's favor.
Smith, however, believes it was a clean shot and rightful call by the referee:
"Round one was very close. I remember Rodtang caught Superlek with an elbow. Then Superlek came out strong. Rodtang started round two pretty well, and then, he got dropped for the count. I know it was controversial but I think it was a count definitely. I’ve seen the footage of him rolling."
By the looks of it, Smith also wants to disrupt Rodtang's movement and perhaps catch him by surprise in their upcoming rematch.
Rodtang vows not to take Jacob Smith lightly
Rodtang pretty much toyed with Jacob Smith for three rounds the last time they shared the circle together.
Despite facing an opponent he already beat handily, 'The Iron Man' said he can't afford to underestimate the Bad Company and Thaifist representative:
"He's been evolving, improving every day. There's no reason to underestimate him although I have won against him before," Rodtang told Sportskeeda MMA.
ONE 169 has been moved from Atlanta to Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand due to partner obligations.