KUCHING: Thailand’s Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon secured a first-round knockout victory over Japan’s Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa at ONE 172 in under 80 seconds at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan last Sunday.
The highly anticipated blockbuster flyweight match was initially scheduled for January 2024 – but was postponed due to an injury sustained by Rodtang during training.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Rodtang addressed on the criticism and backlash faced after failing to make the flyweight limit for ONE 169 — where he was later stripped of the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai champion belt.
“I knew — there were a lot of critics who questioned about my past performances, about the way I fight, making hydration – and the way I made my weight where I lost my belt on the scale.
“I have put everything I have in each and every fight, and now I am ready to take my belt back,” the Thai star said with a newfound confidence.
From the opening bell, Rodtang showcased his trademark aggressive style, pressing forward with relentless combinations.
By the 1:20 minute marker, he delivered a powerful left hook that sent Takeru to the canvas, prompting the referee to stop the bout and award the Thai national with a knockout victory – solidifying his fight record to over 274 win.
For his outstanding performance, Rodtang received a well-deserved US$50,000 (about RM221,762.50) bonus from ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong.
He also shared part of the bonus will be donated to the Muslim community in need in the spirit of Ramadan.
