“The fight I was calling for” - Jacob Smith admits he’s glad ONE Championship matched him up against Rodtang in debut outing

Flyweight striker Jacob Smith of the United Kingdom has no regrets about facing such a dangerous marauder in Rodtang Jitmuangnon when he made his ONE Championship debut two years ago.

Smith traded leather with 'The Iron Man' at ONE 157: Petchmorakot vs. Vienot in May 2022. Unfortunately, the fiery Englishman lost a three-round unanimous decision, but not before being pieced up by the Thai star.

Today, Smith is a permanent fixture in Rodtang's highlight reel. But the 32-year-old Bad Company product says it was all part of the learning process and it's what he wanted then.

Speaking to Combat Sports Today, Smith said:

"I'm glad because at the end of the day as well, that was the fight that I was calling for anyway."

Now, the two are ready for a rematch.

Smith is ready to run it back with Rodtang for the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title.

The two lock horns at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Prime Video, which broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, Nov. 8.

Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and free on Amazon Prime Video. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event.

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Jacob Smith says he feels no external pressure to perform: "I hold myself to high standards"

Jacob Smith knows that as a fighter, the only thing that matters is that he's satisfied with his performance.

Smith says he's ready to leave it all in the ring and put together the fight of his life, against 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon at ONE 169 on Prime Video next month. Speaking to Combat Sports Today, he said:

"I hold [myself to] high standards. So the only pressure I feel is the one I’m putting on myself."