“He's very tough” - Rodtang Jitmuangnon says Jacob Smith still a threat because he’s durable

Reigning and undisputed ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon of Thailand knows that even though he has already defeated upcoming opponent Jacob Smith before, he can't underestimate the fierce Englishman.

Rodtang defeated Smith via three-round unanimous decision at ONE 157 in May 2022. But now that Smith has come into his own and found his groove in ONE Championship, the two are just about ready to trade leather once again.

Speaking to Sportskeeda MMA in an exclusive interview, Rodtang shared his thoughts on Smith and why he's a worthy opponent.

A man of very few words, 'The Iron Man' said:

"His durability. He's very tough and he doesn't give up."

Rodtang knows Smith is a legitimate challenge, and he will need to be at his best in order to defend the gold.

'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon defends his ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title against Jacob Smith at ONE 169: Atlanta, which broadcasts live from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia on Friday, November 8.

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'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon is careful not to take Jacob Smith lightly at ONE 169: "There's no reason to underestimate him"

Overconfidence is a common downfall for a lot of fighters, but Rodtang Jitmuangnon says he won't go down that path.

'The Iron Man' rematches former adversary Jacob Smith at ONE 169: Atlanta this November. Although he's already 1-0 against his English rival, Rodtang is preparing for the best Jacob Smith, one that has shown a lot of recent improvements.

He told Sportskeeda MMA:

"He's been evolving, improving every day. There's no reason to underestimate him although I have won against him before."

Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.

Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates on the event.