"Smith stood tough" - Fans applaud Jacob Smith's fortitude, but bow to Rodtang's raw power in the pair's 2022 Muay Thai showdown
In May 2022, current ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon welcomed British striking star Jacob Smith to the world's largest martial arts organization when they faced each other at ONE 157 inside the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
ONE Championship republished the full fight replay of this match on YouTube with the description:
"Before flyweight Muay Thai kingpin Rodtang defends his crown for the SIXTH time in a heated rematch with British powerhouse Jacob Smith, relive their first encounter in the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai Grand Prix at ONE 157 in 2022."
See the video below:
From the get-go, 'The Iron Man' has imposed his dominance against Smith with his constant pressure forward. He used his vicious combinations to force the promotional debutant to fight on his backfoot
These strikes from the Thai superstar caused significant damage to the Bad Company and Thaifirst representative, as he received a nasty cut on his face and was made to taste his own blood.
Eventually, Rodtang got the unanimous decision victory to claim his 11th triumph in the promotion.
This outstanding performance by Rodtang and the incredible durability of Smith have received massive praise from fans, as users @revniw1, @paulohaulo3961, @2HighNoon, @NateSmith87, @quanthinh3487, and @iScoopyPal commented:
"Smith stood tough but took an old fashioned a$$ whipping."
"That was a tough fight. You could hear an audible thud on every punch and kick thrown. 4oz glove Muay Thai is pure nonstop entertainment, kudos to both fighters"
"Rodtang had mercy on him that last round."
"Rodtang is the GOAT in and out of the ring! Pure vibes!"
"Respect for Smith for taking so many elbows and still standing to the end."
"Smith is a tough guy who is usually always pushed forward. Rodtang just walked through him, and not even in beast mode!"
Jacob Smith vows to be better in rematch against Rodtang at ONE 169: Atlanta
The current number three-ranked divisional contender wants to maximize the opportunity that ONE Championship has given him, as he will face Rodtang in a world title rematch on Nov. 8 at ONE 169: Atlanta inside State Farm Arena.
Ahead of their second meeting, Smith talked to Sportskeeda MMA for an exclusive interview, and he promised to put on a better performance than their first meeting, claiming:
"I think he did feel my power and I got into some positions to make sure he feels my power. But, I'll be able to do it better this time. I'm better equipped, I'm a lot better."
Tickets for ONE 169 are available at Ticketmaster.