WATCH: Combat sports legends Demetrious Johnson, Rodtang link up to train together at Looksaikongdin Gym in Bangkok

Rodtang (left), Demetrious Johnson (right) [Photo via ONE Championship]
Rodtang (left), Demetrious Johnson (right) [Photo via ONE Championship]

Demetrious Johnson made a stop in Thailand last week to film a new episode of the Mighty podcast.

Along the way, he chose to spend time and train with Rodtang Jitmuangnon before attending the blockbuster ONE 170 event at a sold-out Impact Arena in Bangkok last Friday, January 24.

The two combat sports icons shared the ring at Looksaikongdin Gym, where they sparred and exchanged techniques. Their training session, captured on video, offered fans a glimpse of their mutual respect and elite skills:

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Rodtang later took to Instagram to express his gratitude to 'Mighty Mouse' for including him in the American's trip itinerary:

"Thank you for coming to see me, the GOAT!”

The now-retired former ONE flyweight MMA world champion, in turn, had high praise for the Thai megastar, highlighting the camaraderie built between them over the years.

Johnson wrote through his own Instagram account:

"Amazing time training with [Rodtang] in Thailand! ‘Mighty Journey’ episode dropping in the future!”

Demetrious Johnson once fought Rodtang in ONE Championship

Their meeting brought back memories of their unforgettable clash in March 2022 — a hybrid-rules bout that pitted Rodtang Jtimuangnon’s striking prowess against Demetrious Johnson’s well-rounded MMA arsenal.

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Rodtang set the tone early under Muay Thai rules in the first round, engaging Johnson in relentless close-quarters exchanges. The American initially stood toe-to-toe with the knockout artist, trading knees and short punches.

However, as Rodtang gained momentum, Johnson adjusted his strategy, creating distance to mitigate the Thai’s heavy offense.

But when the second round arrived — transitioning into MMA rules — the tide turned dramatically. Johnson wasted no time seizing control, swiftly securing a takedown and putting the then-ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion on his back.

From there, Johnson executed a textbook rear-naked choke at the 2:13 mark, rendering Rodtang unconscious after the Thai warrior refused to tap.

Johnson and Rodtang’s epic battle remains one of the most talked-about mixed-rules contests in combat sports history, and their recent reunion in Thailand only reinforced the deep respect between two of the best in their respective disciplines.

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Edited by C. Naik
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