No one expects the world’s most famous Muay Thai fighter to go through the wringer. It turns out Rodtang Jitmuangnon finally exorcised his demons in spectacular fashion at ONE 167. This came after he outpointed Denis Puric via a hard-fought unanimous decision. “The Iron Man” broke down soon after.
The fight against Puric was a hard one. Rodtang Jitmuangnon let loose and let all his emotions out. He then started hugging the fight fans in the crowd as he walked away from the ring. The Muay Thai fighter confessed to being under tremendous pressure coming into this fight.
Been almost a year since I fought. I missed weight. A lot of people have been saying harsh things to me. I was under a lot of pressure. To fight and have this victory again, I am very happy and I’m grateful for all of your support.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon at ONE 167 post-fight interview
Rodtang missed weight for this fight by 3.5 pounds and failed the hydration test. The fight at ONE 167 thus moved to catchweight stipulation. This was also his first fight after almost a year. He was coming off a unanimous decision loss to Superlek Kiatmoo9 back in September of 2023.
Rodtang gets the unanimous decision. Breaks down in tears.
“Been almost a year since I fought. I missed weight. A lot of people have been saying harsh things to me.
“I was under a lot of pressure. To fight and have this victory again, I am very happy and I’m grateful for all…
— Nicolas Atkin (@nicatkinONE) June 8, 2024
His missed weight and loss took a toll on him. Many fight fans had trolled the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion on his loss. But this fight against Denis Puric at ONE 167 showcased his usual grit and determination. His iron chin and fast hands still spoke volumes about his greatness. His career in combat sports is one of the most legendary in the entire world.
Rodtang reveals the career shift he had to make as a kid
For Rodtang Jitmuangnon, the path to combat sports greatness wasn’t predetermined. As a teenager, the future Muay Thai icon actually preferred soccer over striking. However, harsh financial realities ultimately forced Rodtang’s hand towards a career change.
Rodtang reveals his career shift as a kid (via ONE Championship)In his own words, the choice came down to family over personal passion. Jitmuangnon revealed that as a kid, he was drawn to soccer. The fighter also revealed that he was afraid of fighting.
But I was paid very little for playing soccer compared to Muay Thai. I decided to compete in Muay Thai to earn more money to support my family. At that time, I would earn 300 baht (US$8) per fight.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon via ONE Championship IG
Those humble beginnings, earning just $8 per bout, hardly hinted at superstardom. However, Rodtang’s work ethic and punishing Muay Thai style quickly elevated him. Today, the 26-year-old has blossomed into an elite multi-millionaire talent with a huge stardom.
