"His technical ability is massively underrated" - Jacob Smith says 'rock solid' Rodtang is more than just a brawler

Jacob Smith received a rude awakening from Rodtang Jitmuangnon back in his ONE debut in 2022.

While the British striker was well aware of 'The Iron Man's fearless gun-slinging ways, he was taken aback by just how cerebrally technical the flyweight Muay Thai kingpin truly was.

Rodtang's bravado and flamboyance have certainly made him a global fan favorite in recent years, particularly his penchant for creating chaos.

However, Smith found out that the Thai berserker gets away with this reckless attitude simply because he is a technical maestro in 'The Art of Eight Limbs'.

The third-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender shared in a Sportskeeda MMA exclusive:

"His strengths are that he’s Rodtang. He’s absolutely rock solid. His technical ability is massively underrated. I personally don’t feel that he has any weaknesses. He’s an absolute killer."

Rodtang was still his usual ferociously aggressive self against Smith in their three-round slugfest at ONE 157.

However, the 27-year-old also displayed how methodical he could be with brilliant distance management and well-placed counterstriking throughout the match.

Smith was a bloody mess once the final bell rang and accepted that Rodtang simply outclassed him from start to finish.

The United Kingdom-based fighter, though, will get an opportunity for revenge at ONE 169: Malykhhin vs Reug Reug on November 8 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Apart from retribution, Smith will also walk away with 26 pounds of gold if he can get the job done.

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'Improved' Jacob Smith ready to show Rodtang his evolution at ONE 169

Jacob Smith may have lost his first battle with Rodtang, but he came out as a better fighter in the process.

The British bomber is grateful to have such a stiff test in his entry to ONE, as it made him realize what it takes to fight at the highest levels of the sport.

Speaking to Sportskeeda MMA, the Bad Company and Thaifist affiliate promised to assert himself more in his do-over with the Thai sensation:

"I think he did feel my power and I got into some positions to make sure he feels my power. But, I'll be able to do it better this time. I'm better equipped, I'm a lot better."