Jacob Smith admits he was taken aback by Rodtang's high fight IQ in first duel: "He was very calculated"
Rodtang Jitmuangnon has developed a reputation for being a relentless berserker who mindlessly pushes forward and willingly absorbs shots. However, much to Jacob Smith's surprise, the flyweight Muay Thai world champion was anything but careless in their three-round strikefest back in 2022.
The British slugger had a tall task in his promotional debut when he took 'The Iron Man' in the Flyweight Muay Thai Grand Prix Quarterfinal at ONE 157.
Smith was as tough as advertised, showing a willingness to trade with the feared Rodtang.
The Thai superstar, though, blew him out of the water with precise chaos, throwing every combination with methodical precision.
Rodtang toyed with the Smith using his rarely-seen elite footwork, gliding in and out of danger. After three rounds, Smith's bloodied-up face said it all, and the 27-year-old took home the dominant unanimous decision win.
Smith recently recalled his initial date with Rodtang in an exclusive ONE Championship interview:
"He was very calculated. He was judging the distance well, and that was very good, which all of this, I know now."
Meanwhile, many fans and pundits see that performance as one of Rodtang's best in the world's largest martial arts organization.
Quite frankly, he proved that he has the cerebral mind and high fight IQ to fight in a 'Muay Femur' style.
Rewatch Rodtang vs. Jacob Smith I below:
Jacob Smith vows vengeance in rematch with Rodtang
After earning his keep in the home of martial arts, Smith will finally get his long-awaited opportunity to even the score with Rodtang.
Their high-stakes rematch for the flyweight Muay Thai crown will take place at ONE 169: Atlanta on November 8 inside the State Farm Arena.
In the same interview, Smith explained why he'll be the one with his hand raised once the dust settles:
"Now, I've got four fights in ONE Championship, four fights at that level. And yeah, I feel this time around, it's gonna be a lot different."
Tickets for ONE 169: Atlanta are available here, via Ticketmaster