"I won't be reckless" - Jacob Smith vows not to leave himself open in pursuit of a finish against Rodtang

ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title challenger Jacob Smith knows the only way to silence his critics for good is to do the unthinkable and knockout Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

Then again, don't expect the Brit to get too overeager chasing the killing blow and leaving himself open in the process.

The no.3 ranked contender will have the golden opportunity to avenge his earlier defeat to 'The Iron Man' in the penultimate match of ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug on Nov. 8.

If he pulls off the upset, Smith will no doubt stun the crowd and leave Bangkok's Lumpinee Stadium as the new 135-pound Muay Thai kingpin.

In an interview with Combat Sports Today, the Birkenhead, England native said fans shouldn't be surprised if he can crack Rodtang's notoriously indestructible chin.

However, as much as he wants to be the first man to finish Rodtang in ONE Championship, he will still enter the rematch with a calculated approach.

"If something arises where I can step on the gas and look for the finish, I'll be looking for the finish, 100%. But I won't be reckless doing it," he said.

The last time Smith overcommitted on his shots, Rodtang picked him apart with brilliant counterstriking in their first match back in 2022.

Let's see if the Bad Company, Team Thaifist, and 4Corners Gym representative can turn the tables at ONE 169.

Watch Jacob Smith's full interview:

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Jacob Smith says there's no shame in falling short against 'The Iron Man'

At the end of the day, Jacob Smith has no regrets despite failing to get his hand raised against Rodtang back in 2022.

The fighting Brit left the Circle with his head held up high, knowing he put up a valiant effort against one of the best in the world. He told ONE Championship:

“Not only was it my first fight at the highest level, it was against the most elite Muay Thai fighter you can get, so it was tough.”

ONE 169: Malykhin vs Reug Reug will air live in US Primetime free of charge for Prime Video subscribers in North America