When you’re sitting at the top of the striking world, it’s only natural for a target to grow larger and larger on your back. ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon is used to this, as it has been a reality in ONE Championship for the majority of his promotional tenure.
Many have called him out, and he has answered most, including his upcoming foe, Denis Puric, who he meets in flyweight kickboxing action at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Saturday, 8th June, inside Bangkok, Thailand’s Impact Arena.
Puric has wanted this battle for over two years, and Rodtang feels he is finally worthy, based on his impressive slate in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
“I have known Denis Puric for a long time. Since he first joined ONE, he has been calling for me from the beginning. Thank you for always thinking of me,” he said.
“He is very good. He beat Tagir Khalilov and Jacob Smith, so I think he deserves to face me. In his fight with Yodlekpet, I could see this guy is a veteran fighter, and he is more than ready to fight me.”
Many would agree with “The Iron Man’s” assertion. Puric has made a career for himself thanks to his unrelenting pressure and firepower, but his back-to-back Muay Thai against Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat and Smith over the last five months has shown he’s found a new level.
The Bosnian-Canadian star’s aggression should match up well with Rodtang’s savagery.
However, when push comes to shove, the flyweight Muay Thai king believes Puric won’t be able to keep up, and he offered him a stark warning ahead of their kickboxing firefight at ONE 167.
“Denis’ strengths are that he can get in and out quickly. And he is a heavy hitter, good at countering with punches, kicks, and knees. His weakness is that he seems to run out of gas at the end of the round. And his weak body will be a good target for me,” Rodtang said.
“Let’s see how it goes in the ring. I’m glad you think that I’m no match for you. Thank you for calling me out. See you on June 8th, when you will know what hell on earth is.”
