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Andrew Whitelaw

Rodtang Jitmuangnon is a pure showman. From going viral for dropping his hands to marching forward with relentless pressure and fire in his gloves, he is the ultimate fan-friendly fighter. There is no “off” switch and there are no backwards steps, even when it is a friend standing across from him in the ring.
Ahead of his flyweight Muay Thai showdown with Nong-O Hama at ONE 173 in Tokyo on Sunday, the Thai superstar said he had no intention of changing his approach.
“This is my style and I cannot change who I am,” Rodtang told the Post in Tokyo. “I love to fight this way. I love to show my personality in the ring. When the opportunity arrives, I have to take it. I will do my best on Sunday.”
It is a match built on respect and history. Nong-O, now 39, is one of the most accomplished Thai fighters of his generation, while Rodtang remains the sport’s most recognisable name.
Both men have worn ONE Championship gold and inspired a new wave of athletes. For Rodtang, this rematch represents more than a belt; it is a chance to reassert himself on the world stage.

“When there is an opportunity, I must grab it,” he said. “It’s time to take my belt back.”
Despite the friendship between them, Rodtang laughed off any suggestion that he might hold back his trademark antics. “Absolutely, I’ll still be myself,” he said with a grin. “Maybe I’ll drop my hands, maybe even climb on his neck. That’s who I am.”
Asked about Nong-O’s age, Rodtang refused to take the bait. “Age is just a number,” he said.
“It’s about who has the better plan and who is better prepared. Nong-O is disciplined, he trains hard and I cannot underestimate him.”


What he believes will separate them is speed. “I will fight like a rocket,” he said. “That’s my advantage. I’ll be faster, and I’ll use that.”
Both fighters are chasing not only victory but also the performance bonuses that have become a hallmark of ONE events. “We will do our best,” Rodtang said. “Everyone wants the belt and the bonus, but in the end it’s up to Chatri, the big boss, to decide.”
Rodtang also addressed some familiar names. Japanese kickboxing star Takeru Segawa, who fought him in one of the biggest combat sports events ever held in Japan, has publicly expressed interest in a rematch.
Rodtang’s response was simple: “Just get that win. If you win, I’m ready to fight you anytime, even bare hand.”
As for Tenshin Nasukawa, who beat Rodtang in an exhibition bout in 2018 before switching to professional boxing, the Thai said there was no bad blood. “Tenshin has his goals in boxing,” Rodtang said. “If he succeeds and wants to come back to kickboxing one day, I’ll be ready to face him again.”
Beyond Tokyo, Rodtang is also excited about the rumoured return of ONE Championship to Kuala Lumpur. His appearance at fight week in traditional Malay attire earned him plenty of attention from Malaysian fans.
“I was happy to wear the Baju Melayu,” he said. “As a Muslim, I’d love to fight in Kuala Lumpur. There are many Muslim fans there, and I want to show my skills for them.”












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Asked who he would want to face if that Malaysia event happens, he smiled. “Anyone,” he said. “Maybe Superlek again. I can fight anyone, anytime.”
Rodtang also shared his thoughts on Superlek’s coming fight with Yuki Yoza on the same Tokyo card. “It’s a hard fight to call,” he said. “Yuki beat Petchtanong Petchfergus and is dangerous with his boxing. I just hope Superlek doesn’t underestimate him. Don’t worry too much about the leg kicks because Yuki likes to fake and throw punches after. I’m supporting Superlek and hope he wins.”
As ever, Rodtang signed off with gratitude. “To all my fans in Thailand and around the world, please send your support,” he said. “All the Thai fighters will give everything at ONE 173. I hope everyone enjoys the show.”


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ONE Championship

ONE Championship: Rodtang Jitmuangnon vows to ‘fight like a rocket’ against Nong-O Hama

A playful Rodtang Jitmuangnon (left) will face fellow Thai Nong-O Hama at ONE 173 in Tokyo on November 16. Photo: ONE Championship

Rodtang appeared at the press conference in Malaysian attire. Photo: ONE Championship

ONE Championship: Nong-O Hama, Rodtang Jitmuangnon to ‘leave friendship outside the ring’

Rodtang Jitmuangnon (left) will face fellow Thai Nong-O Hama for the vacant ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title at ONE 173 in Tokyo next month. Photo: Handout

Nong-O Hama wants to show he can still be a champion at 38. Photo: ONE Championship

From left, Petchtanong Petchfergus, Rodtang and Nong-O with fans. Photo: Handout

ONE Championship: Nabil Anane to face Hiromi Wajima at ONE 173 after injury pull-out

Thai-Algerian Nabil Anane (right), seen here against Brazil’s Felipe Lobo. stands 1.93 metres tall and is regarded as one of the most gifted young talents in world Muay Thai. Photo: ONE Championship

Nabil Anane making his entrance as One Piece’s Monkey D Luffy against Superlek Kiatmoo9. Photo: Handout 

Nabil Anane is keen to watch the clash between Marat Grigorian (left) and Rukiya Anpo. Photo: Handout

Sport

Martial Arts

Muay Thai

Thai star promises fireworks against his veteran compatriot at ONE 173 in Japan as he looks to reclaim his world title


Thai star promises fireworks against his veteran compatriot at ONE 173 in Japan as he looks to reclaim his world title.


Superlek Kiatmuu9

Yuki Yoza

ONE Championship: Rodtang Jitmuangnon vows to ‘fight like a rocket’ against Nong-O Hama

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Thai star promises fireworks against his veteran compatriot at ONE 173 in Japan as he looks to reclaim his world title

Thai star promises fireworks against his veteran compatriot at ONE 173 in Japan as he looks to reclaim his world title