"He was just one step ahead" - Jacob Smith admits Rodtang was much better than he initially thought

Jacob Smith couldn't believe how strong Rodtang truly was until they first fought back in 2022.

The British striker has the opportunity to knock on his doorstep again with a massive world title fight with 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon, for the ONE flyweight Muay Thai crown. Originally booked to take place in Atlanta, Georgia, both men are now expected to square off at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 8.

With so much at stake, Smith aims to have the high ground in this rematch. Losing to Rodtang the first time, proved how much more he needed to train to be at his level.

"He was just one step ahead, sometimes two steps ahead of me all the time," Smith told Sportskeeda MMA, "and that prevented me from letting off or letting off what I'd normally do."

Unsurprisingly, Smith is one of the few contenders in the division who matched Rodtang in terms of pace and aggression to the very end. He proved he was a real dog after absorbing some of Rodtang's most lethal KO punches. However, the rematch won't be any less difficult.

If Jacob Smith evolved a lot more as a fighter like he claims, then we're looking at a potential new champion in 2024.

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"It's achievable and it's your destiny" - Jacob Smith fans believe he can change the course of ONE history with a victory against long-reigning Thai champion Rodtang

Jacob Smith won't accept another loss against 'The Iron Man.'

The father of two has undergone an incredible journey with ONE Championship thus far. Amidst all the wins, losses, and injuries, Smith continues to outperform his greatest adversaries due to a great support system at the gym.

With the help of boxing trainer John Gillies, the 32-year-old Brit is confident that Rodtang will see another version of him that he hasn't seen before. Fight fans online also agree.

They have rallied behind him with messages of support after Smith released a training session with Gillies on his Instagram page.

One fan praised him and said:

"Lookin ripped there kid. Big @johngillies123 got you in shape....Jacob, really think about this as its achievable and its your #DESTINY."

ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug will now take place at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Nov. 8 due to partner obligations.