"There's zero pressure on me" - Jacob Smith enters Rodtang rematch with nothing to lose

ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title challenger Jacob Smith doesn't mind being considered a massive underdog against divisional kingpin Rodtang Jitmuangnon. Considering most fans and pundits are again expecting him to lose, the British fighter is ready to catch everyone off guard.

Smith will run it back with his tormentor in the penultimate match of ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug this coming Nov. 8 inside 'The Mecca of Muay Thai' Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

This isn't exactly Smith's first rodeo against the Thai megastar, whom he met in his promotional debut back in 2022.

While the Birkenhead, England native got dominated for three rounds, he now has a greater understanding of Rodtang's capabilities, and perhaps his weaknesses.

That said, Smith explained in an interview with Combat Sports Today why being counted out doesn't bother him one bit:

​

"Obviously, outside of my team, there's zero pressure on me, but having said that, from me, my team, and my family, there's a lot of pressure on me because I put a lot of pressure on myself, because I hold very high expectations of myself."

Here's Jacob Smith's full interview:

Jacob Smith vows not to get too crazy chasing the knockout

Jacob Smith prides himself on being a finisher, something that he won't change just because his opponent possesses a legendary iron chin.

While the Bad Company and Thaifist fighter will look for openings in Rodtang's armor, don't expect him to overcommit and leave himself open. He told ONE:

​

"If something arises where I can step on the gas and look for the finish, I'll be looking for the finish, 100%. But I won't be reckless doing it."

ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug will air live in US Primetime free of charge for Prime Video subscribers in North America.

​

​

​