ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon oozed megastar potential in his ONE Championship debut against Sergio Wielzen at ONE: Conquest of Heroes in September 2018.
The world's largest martial arts promotion shared highlights of Rodtang's unanimous decision win over 'Samurai' on Instagram, with the accompanying caption:
"The birth of a legend 🤩 Look back at Rodtang's ONE debut before he defends the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship against Jacob Smith at ONE 169! @rodtang_jimungnon"
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Fans shared their awe at seeing a young Rodtang in the comments section:
"At first I didn't recognize who this was and I didn't read the caption and I was like omg who is this new guy he's going to be a legend."
"I think Rodtang went easy on him and didn't want to seriously hurt the man... He just went for the win."
"I lost count on Rodtang's teep."
"JUST A BEAUTY."
"He swing his opponent around like a rag doll!!"
Now a veteran of 17 fights under the ONE banner, the Jitmuangnon Gym star will defend the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world championship against Jacob Smith at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. 'Reug Reug' on Nov. 8 inside the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Chris Hemsworth shows support to Rodtang ahead of ONE 169
Rodtang's rise to global superstar status has seen him make many friends along the way, which includes Hollywood megastar Chris Hemsworth.
'The Iron Man' shared the Australian actor's message to him in an Instagram post:
"Hey Rodtang, what's up, buddy? Just wanna wish you all the best in your next fight defending your championship. You're a warrior mate, you're an inspiration, cannot wait to watch it. Go get it done."
ONE 169 will air live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.