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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Rodtang shocked with US reception: 'I'm just very grateful'

Rodtang shocked with US reception: 'I'm just very grateful'

Published May 9, 2023 02:59 am
ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon knew he was a hot shot in Asia and among the most hardcore combat sports fans, but this past weekend he realized he’s a bigger star than he thinks.  *Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon at the ONE Fight Night*

With the sold-out 1stBank Center in Colorado, chanting his name after his second-round knockout win over Edgar Tabares at ONE Fight Night 10 on Saturday, 6 May, Rodtang could only smile and relish the moment – knowing that he made it.  “Yeah, I was shocked. I had no idea that Americans would respond that way or that I already have a fan base in America,” he said.  “I was just shocked. I’m just very grateful. I never thought as a child, you know, struggling in poverty, that I’d be here.”  Soon after, Rodtang came to the stands and had a moment with American fans who were ecstatic to finally see him live after watching the Thai star decimate his opponents through Prime Video or other social media outlets.  While he’s happy with the recognition, Rodtang shared that his ultimate goal was to bring Muay Thai to U.S. shores. With his exciting brand of fighting and his overall lovable personality, he’s the perfect representative to do just that.  “I was really thrilled with the opportunity to fight in America and show the beauty of Muay Thai. I really want to elevate it as an art,” he said.  “You know, I truly believe in Muay Thai, love Muay Thai, and I want the world to see the beauty of Muay Thai, too.”  Looking at his future, Rodtang will certainly have his hands full, especially with the arrival of Takeru Segawa, the rise of old rival and newly crowned ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Jonathan Haggerty, and, of course, his long-awaited showdown with fellow Thai and ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek “The Kicking Machine” Kiatmoo9.  “It’s up to Chatri [Sityodtong], but I want to fight them all. I definitely want to fight Takeru. I want to fight them all,” he said.  “I’m willing to fight anybody including Superlek, but I just think from a Thailand perspective that Superlek’s a Muay Thai athlete holding a kickboxing belt, and I hold the Muay Thai belt. It’s just better for Thailand.  “But I’m willing to face anybody. I really want to fight Haggerty and Takeru right now.” 

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