ONE Friday Fights 34: Superlek Insists Rodtang Clash Has Always Been Inevitable

ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek Kiatmoo9's 2023 hit list has been a cut above the rest. In fact, the "The Kicking Machine's" trail of wreckage has led him to the biggest Muay Thai clash in recent history.

The legendary Thai looks to double his gold when he meets ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon on Friday, 22 September, in the main event of ONE Friday Fights 34, fittingly situated in Bangkok, Thailand's Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

Ever since he came up short to former ONE flyweight kickboxing king Ilias Ennahachi in February 2021, Superlek has turned over a new leaf. In his wake, he has amassed a superb seven-fight winning streak against names like Panpayak Jitmuangnon, Danial Williams, and Nabil Anane.

But his rate of activity over the past nine months is what has set Superlek apart from the rest. Whether it be kickboxing or Muay Thai, he has taken on any and all comers.

This year has seen multiple breakout stars in the world's largest martial arts organization. But Superlek believes his recent dominance should earn him the 2023 ONE Fighter of the Year accolade.

"I deeply hope for the 2023 Fighter of the Year award because I fought frequently this year," Superlek said. "[I had] four fights in seven months, with three KOs. It would be great to get this award."

'Rodtang Is My Ultimate Goal' - Superlek Admits Beating Thai Megastar Is Top Mission

A dream clash between Superlek Kiatmoo9 and Rodtang Jitmuangnon has been on everybody's wishlist for many years now. And it'll finally culminate on Friday, 22 September.

The pair were both expected to do battle at ONE Fight Night 8 before an injury sidelined Rodtang. But "The Kicking Machine" believes their upcoming bust up has always been inevitable.

Now, at ONE Friday Fights 34 next week, he'll do his best to ensure the fight lives up to the intense levels of anticipation surrounding this long-awaited Muay Thai matchup.

"Rodtang is my ultimate goal in this division. I think it is the perfect time for us to fight each other. We can't run from each other for long. The time has come right now," Superlek said. "I'll do my best to give our fans the fight to die for."