“The Iron Man” Rodtang Jitmuangnon never expected fate to orchestrate this showdown. The celebrated Thai competitor established his dominant run while admiring the experienced fighter now standing in his way, sparking a complex emotional dynamic that goes beyond standard competitive clashes.
Rodtang will clash with Nong-O Hama for the vacant ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title at ONE 173 on Sunday, November 16, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The 28-year-old former titleholder will battle his longtime inspiration after losing his championship in November 2024 for failing to meet weight requirements, while 38-year-old Nong-O aims for a rare feat of holding belts in two weight classes.
Nong-O’s storied career influenced Rodtang’s approach to martial arts and life. The former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion amassed approximately 350 professional contests, collecting two Thailand National Championships, four Lumpinee Stadium World Titles across numerous divisions, and a Rajadamnern Stadium belt. His ONE Championship tenure saw seven successful title defenses with five knockout victories.
Their bond grew beyond the professional arena through shared meals in Singapore and company gatherings. Rodtang was drawn to Nong-O’s unassuming personality despite his immense accomplishments, often stating that he would never face his idol. Their friendship strengthened over six years, making this encounter feel both inevitable and undesirable.
“Since joining ONE Championship, Nong-O has been my role model, both in fighting and in life. The way he cares for his body is exemplary,” he said.
“He embodies the qualities that everyone should strive for. I will always hold him in high regard. I never wanted to fight him. When I competed in Singapore, we met and shared a meal. We were together at every event. We always show respect for one another. I have consistently said that I never wish to fight Nong-O.”
Rodtang Jitmuangnon contemplates friendship versus ONE World Championship goals
Casual football games offered friendly competition between the fighters before circumstances altered. These moments on the field were the closest they came to facing each other, or so Rodtang Jitmuangnon believed. Circumstances now dictate what their friendship couldn’t prevent.
A victory over Nong-O Hama presents mixed feelings for Rodtang. Regaining his title at the expense of his mentor creates internal conflict, complicating the joy of championship success. Competing against fellow Thais is always different from fighting international opponents, and this contest magnifies that feeling significantly.
Professional obligations outweigh personal emotions once the ONE Circle doors are closed. Rodtang understands that Nong-O will approach their fight with the same mindset, turning friends into championship contenders vying for lasting legacies. Their camaraderie will resume after the final bell, but the championship battle demands complete concentration until then.
“If I win, I win. I’ll be happy to win the championship, like anyone else,” he said.
“But fighting a fellow Thai, especially Nong-O, who I highly respect, is different. I might be happy, or maybe not. It’s hard to say. It’s a complicated feeling. I just aim to perform my best and make everyone proud. When I fight, I fight for the fans, for those who support me, not just myself.”
