“I don’t like to look too far into it” - Jacob Smith says he’ll continue to put in the work if he beats Rodtang for the gold
Jacob Smith doesn't want to concern himself with the intangibles that come with being a world champion. The British slugger believes he'll remain the same even if he comes away victorious against Rodtang Jitmuangnon in his challenge for the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title at ONE 169 on Nov. 8 at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
In an interview with Combat Sports Today, Smith said he doesn't like to think too far ahead if he does grab hold of the gold in Bangkok. Jacob Smith expressed what being a world champion means for his career, but he's confident he will still remain the same fighter and person he has always been, even if he realizes his world championship dreams.
He said:
"It's amazing. But the thing is, with me, I don't like to look too far into it, I don't like to look at the prize, that to me, is a prize, along with the world title, along with the money and the status that comes with it."
While this is the first time he'll challenge for the gold, this won't be the first time Smith faces the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion in ONE Championship.
Smith debuted at ONE 157 against Rodtang in the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix, but lost in his first fight under the promotion via unanimous decision.
Nevertheless, Smith worked his way to the top five of the flyweight Muay Thai rankings and is currently ranked third in the division. Smith's world title challenge against Rodtang, and the entire ONE 169 card, is available live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.
Watch Smith's entire interview below:
Jacob Smith won't get reckless against Rodtang at ONE 169
Jacob Smith knows all too well when opponents get aggressive against Rodtang Jitmuangnon. The British standout did just that when he first faced 'The Iron Man' in his promotional debut.
Despite trying to bring the fight to Rodtang, Smith received a humbling beatdown at the hands of 'The Iron Man.' Smith said in an interview with ONE Championship that he can't afford to be reckless against Rodtang lest he suffers the same fate he did in his promotional debut.
He said:
"How that comes, who knows. If I see an opening, then I’m going to go for it. But if not, I’m going to stick to the plan and get the job done.”