"It was the right decision" - Jacob Smith says Superlek rightfully beat Rodtang in epic Muay Thai Fight of the Century
Jacob Smith rewatched the tapes and has come to the same conclusion each time: Superlek truly beat Rodtang last year.
The English striker is searching for any signs of weaknesses in Rodtang's game this week, before they ultimately clash for the second time at ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug.
The best footage to study from is certainly his Muay Thai classic against reigning two-division world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9. Both men proved themselves worthy enough of a victory, but the close fight ended with Superlek's hand raised in the air.
Upon close examination, Smith sides with the judges' decision. He made a point recently, that even without the knockdown Superlek may have scored against Rodtang, it was pure tact and strategy that won him the decision.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, he said:
"I watched the fight between Rodtang and Superlek. And I feel it was the right decision. I feel Superlek is the best fighter in the world. But I do feel that it was very close. And that knockdown, I think it was in round two, I think it was a consolation knockdown. Rodtang was just rolling off his ankle."
"F*** the outside noise" - Jacob Smith retaliates against the criticisms involving his Muay Thai rematch with 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon
Jacob Smith has pushed back against all the criticism he's received on social media, with a terrific mike-drop response on his Instagram page.
The critics highly disapprove of a rematch between Rodtang and Smith, partly because Smith already lost to the flyweight king by dominant decision in their first encounter in 2022 at ONE 157.
But Jacob Smith will have none of their negativity. He retaliated with the most epic response possible on his Instagram page this week.
Via Fight Record, he posted:
"Fuck the outside noise, it's all about the belief I have in myself and my team has in me. I have 2 kids to fight for, if you think I'm coming to make up the numbers, you don't know me at all. I am coming to take the belt!"
ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug will take place at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday, Nov 8, due to partner obligations.