Rodtang Surveys ONE Fight Night 12 Main Event, Talks Future

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ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon has been enjoying life outside of the ring recently, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been keeping an eye on what's going on in his division.

"The Iron Man" will watch closely this Saturday, 15 July, when ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion and #1-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender Superlek Kiatmoo9 and Tagir Khalilov lock horns in the main event of ONE Fight Night 12 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The pair agreed to this battle at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium on short notice, which coincidentally, happened to Rodtang when he met Khalilov on just one week's notice at ONE: FISTS OF FURY in 2021.

Rodtang defeated the Russian superstar that night by split decision, with Khalilov throwing everything he had at the Muay Thai king in what was a memorable performance for the latter.

"I've learned that Tagir is a brave fighter who always goes toe-to-toe. But he still has a hole in his defense. He will let his guard down when he attacks," Rodtang said.

"So, Superlek should wait for that chance to counter. It is not a good idea to trade with him because Superlek will probably be a victim of Tagir's punch combination.

"When I fought him two years ago, his style was completely kickboxing with good in-and-out steps. But today, I see that he adds some Muay Thai techniques into his style. He will strike more often, he will not dance around anymore, and I'm happy for his development. His style is obviously a favorite for fans."

Last time Rodtang was in action, he scored his 14th consecutive Muay Thai victory on ONE's inaugural US event this past May at ONE Fight Night 10: Johnson vs. Moraes III in Denver, Colorado.

The charismatic striker knocked out a very game Mexican striker in Edgar Tabares in the second frame in highlight-reel fashion, resulting in the Colorado crowd chanting his name even well after his fight ended.