“I didn't like Muay Thai because I was scared” - Rodtang chose soccer over fighting when he was young

Muay Thai phenom 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon's name is firmly established in the sport of Muay Thai. However, as a young child, the Thai-born athlete nearly missed his opportunity.

A young Rodtang was far more interested in the sport of football. While speaking in an interview with ONE Championship, 'The Iron Man' explained:

"Actually, my love for soccer happened even before I even started Muay Thai. When I was young, I didn't like Muay Thai because I was scared. I didn’t like to fight. I preferred soccer. I started playing soccer when I was a kid."

The switch to Muay Thai occurred for the same reason as many others. It was an economic need. He continued:

"But I was paid very little for playing soccer, compared to Muay Thai. So, I decided to compete in Muay Thai to earn more money to support my family. At that time, I would earn 300 baht per fight. When I moved to Bangkok to pursue Muay Thai as a career, I stopped playing soccer. I just came back to play it again recently."

'The Iron Man' is a decorated Muay Thai world titleholder competing in ONE Championship. He will put his flyweight crown on the line when he faces ONE strawweight Muay Thai world champion Joseph Lasiri.

The two striking experts are booked for a showdown at ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18. The historic fight will be enjoyed live and for free on Prime Video for all subscribers.

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Rodtang Jitmuangnon discusses Joseph Lasiri

Moroccan-Italian Joseph Lasiri will be looking to make history and do the impossible by defeating Muay Thai prodigy 'The Iron Man'.

Lasiri captured the strawweight Muay Thai throne earlier this year when he dominated then-champion Prajanchai PK.Saenchai.

In an interview with ONE Championship, 'The Iron Man' suggested he is expecting to win this bout by way of knockout:

“I expect to knock him out in round three. I want to knock him out with a high kick. But it would be tricky because he is too tall to reach. So, I think I’ll knock him out with my killer punch and elbow instead.”

Rodtang Jitmuangnon will face Joseph Lasiri at ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18 with the flyweight crown on the line.