Rodtang says social media isn't a true reflection of his hard work: "It's not necessary for me to show when I'm training"

At most times, it's always better to walk the talk. Just ask ONE flyweight Muay Thai kingpin Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

The longtime ONE world champion returned to winning ways at ONE 167 this past Friday, June 7. After failing to meet his end of the bargain on the scales, critics were quick to knock on the Thai warrior's door, questioning his commitment and desire to compete.

While there was no denying that 'The Iron Man' looked as if he had taken a step back, there is also no denying that he looked back at his vicious best in his victorious outing against Denis Puric inside the Impact Arena.

The Jitmuangnon Gym representative bit on his mouthpiece to produce an all-out war against the Bosnian-Canadian veteran. For three rounds, the Thai megastar never took a step back, and he was rewarded for his fine effort with a unanimous decision.

Of course, there are issues that he will need to address on his end. Still, Rodtang was quick to call out the naysayers during the official ONE 167 post-event press conference.

Referring to the lack of training clips that he shares on social media these days, the Thai said

"One thing about social media, a lot of people are talking about how I haven't trained or anything like that. But I'm not focused on that."

"When I'm training, I'm focused on training. It's not necessary for me to show when I'm training on each day or even when I'm eating on each day. So it's really irrelevant."

Watch the full interview here:

The ONE 167 replay is available to active Amazon Prime Video subscribers in North America.

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Chatri Sityodtong eyes Rodtang-Takeru by the end of 2024

In attendance alongside the Thai megastar at the post-fight presser was ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong, who remains eager for the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion to cross paths with Takeru Segawa this year.

Speaking on a dream Rodtang vs. Takeru superfight, Sityodtong noted:

"I want to do Rodtang vs Takeru. 100 percent. I want to do that fight this year. Maybe in Japan. Let's see."

The bout was originally set for the headliner of ONE 165 in Tokyo, Japan, earlier this year. Unfortunately, 'The Iron Man' withdrew from the tie due to a hand injury he sustained during camp.