“I don’t want to do it” - Rodtang says he won’t perform for fans if he isn’t feeling a hundred percent

Rodtang said he would rather sit out of the competition than give less than 100% for his fans.

Case and point, the Thai superstar didn’t feel confident he was physically prepared for his expected return against Savaas Michael for the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix semi-finals. He withdrew from the competition altogether for failing to provide a urinary sample for the mandatory hydration test set in place by the promotion.

As difficult a decision it was for Rodtang to opt out of one of the most thrilling World Grand Prix tournaments of the year at ONE on Prime Video 1, the 25-year-old has come to terms with that reality and explained to ONE Championship:

“I'm just telling myself, ‘It's ok, even though I can't claim the silver belt. But I will have another chance in the future.’ And I'll be back with perfect shape and treat fans with true entertainment.”

He added:

“If I can’t go out there feeling 100 percent and give fans a complete performance, then I don’t want to do it. So, I decided to withdraw from the competition.”

Fortunately, ‘The Iron Man’ is back on a Prime Video fight card and is seemingly in the best condition he’s ever been. He will make his fourth world title defense against Italian-Moroccan striker Joseph Lasiri, who is moving up to flyweight to challenge him for double gold at ONE on Prime Video 4.

The explosive event will be broadcast live and free to all North American audiences who have a Prime Video subscription.

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Joseph Lasiri hopes to show what he can do against top flyweight king Rodtang Jitmuangnon

Joseph Lasiri knows that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to challenge flyweight king Rodtang Jitmuangnon, so he’ll make the necessary adjustments to get himself that victory.

‘The Hurricane’ is coming in hot with an impressive three-fight win streak, two of which were by way of stoppage and the other by dominant decision. Recently capturing strawweight gold from Prajanchai PK.Saenchai due to a doctor’s stoppage in the third round, Lasiri feels he’s ready to take on new territory.

Although Rodtang is the favorite heading into their clash on November 18, Lasiri hopes to score another upset victory and be the first man in ONE Muay Thai history to drop Rodtang in his own backyard. Speaking to ONE Championship, he said:

“It is not about winning or losing, it’s to challenge myself. Now I come back to fight the top fighter in the flyweight division. I’m ready to challenge myself another time, like I did before. I hope to get the win to show other people what one man can do.”