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If you still haven’t watched Rodtang Jitmuangnon fight inside the Circle, you’re definitely missing out.
The reigning ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion is arguably one of the most entertaining and breathtaking fighters to watch in all of combat sports at the moment. MMA purists who wish to have a deeper appreciation for the striking arts simply need to witness a good old-fashioned brawl featuring the enigmatic Thai superstar.
On Friday, November 18, Rodtang returns to action to defend his 135-pound Muay Thai throne against the surging Joseph Lasiri at ONE on Prime Video 4: Abbasov vs. Lee inside the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The clash between the two world champions will air live on US primetime for free for those with an Amazon subscription. With that said, here are the three biggest reasons why Rodtang Jitmuangnon is must-see TV.
#3. Rodtang Jitmuangnon is the perfect mix of technical prowess and savage brutality
While fighters all have unique styles and tendencies, most fall under two categories. There are those who possess textbook techniques and are fundamentally sound, while others bear overwhelming strength and are naturally gifted with immense power.
Those who hold both come from a rare breed and usually achieve the most success.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon is the perfect ambassador for the art of eight limbs, considering he embodies Muay Thai’s technical and destructive sides.
Early in his career, ‘The Iron Man’ endeared himself to ONE fans for his devil-may-care attitude and penchant for all-out brawls. At first glance, the ultra-aggressive Rodtang seems to be your prototypical brawler considering how he bull-rushed formidable fighters like Jonathan Haggerty, Petchdam Petchyindee, and Danial Williams, among others.
However, there’s actually a method to his madness. The hard-hitting world champion usually starts off by throwing precise yet chopping leg kicks to hinder his opponents’ movements and their ability to dodge his attacks. After methodically weakening their defenses, Rodtang Jitmuangnon unleashes a brutal wave of organized chaos that we now all know and love.
We even saw how cerebral he can be in his last world title defense against Jacob Smith. Rodtang was unusually calm and collected and methodically decimated his British foe.
Relive some of Rodtang Jitmuangon’s best career wins below:
#2. Rodtang Jitmuangnon has unworldly durability
Remember playing with Rock 'Em Sock ‘Em Robots as a kid? Well, Rodtang lives that life each time he fights. The brave Thai fighter somehow always goads his opponents into mindlessly throwing down in the center of the Circle.
The 25-year-old doesn’t mind taking punishment as long as he gets to dish some out in return. More often than not, this plot works for him because he wields a seemingly indestructible granite chin.
Rodtang’s infamous chin has yet to fail him inside the Circle. He has won 11 of his all-striking matches under the ONE banner. Even in defeat against Demetrious Johnson in their mixed-rules bout at ONE X this past March, Rodtang was able to gain American fans for his ability to push forward while absorbing clean hits.
Check out this unreal highlight reel and see for yourself:
Moreover, Rodtang has supreme conditioning and can go pedal to the metal for five full rounds. While his opponents are already huffing and puffing, the Thai destroyer is just getting started.
Imagine a wild berserker with a solid chin and an unlimited gas tank going at you full speed. Now that’s a scary sight for anyone.
#1. Rodtang Jitmuangnon delivers absolute entertainment
Rodtang’s showmanship in and outside of the Circle is a certified crowd-pleaser.
For starters, the Thai fighter loves to get the party started with his unique entrances and pre-fight antics. Aside from channeling his inner Robert Downey Jr. with his Iron Man mask, Rodtang keeps his fans engaged with his signature dance moves as he makes his way to the Circle.
Of course, the fun doesn’t stop there. Rodtang has been known to showboat mid-fight while destroying his opponents. It’s not unusual to see Rodtang mean-mugging and flexing on his foes while delivering extreme punishment.
The man simply loves what he does, and he’s not shy at all to express that fiery passion.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon is an absolute beast and already has a massive cult following that will only continue to grow over time. His style is certainly tailor-made for fight-crazed North American fans, and we can’t wait to see how he’ll fare in his Prime Video debut on November 18.
Still unconvinced? Check out some of Rodtang’s most savage moments:
