In the world of combat sports, where training and practice are always considered the most powerful tools against an opponent, mind games often prevail these days. Ryan Garcia‘s fight last month is a great example of this, where he employed mind games before his fight against Devin Haney. In light of this trend, ONE Championship’s #2-ranked Flyweight Muay Thai contender has been caught using this technique against ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon ahead of their upcoming fight at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Jo Nattawut II at Impact Arena, Bangkok, on June 7th.

Speaking of mind games, a recent reel uploaded on ONE Championship’s platform shows ‘The Bosnian Menace’ making a remark that has gone viral and is unlikely to be appreciated by Rodtang’s fans, or even Rodtang himself.

Denis Puric passes judgment on Rodtang Jitmuangnon

Since his arrival in combat sports, Rodtang Jitmuangnon has quickly conquered both Muay Thai and kickboxing titles in ONE Championship and is famous for his aggressive fighting style. This style has earned him a string of victories in the organization. However, his upcoming opponent, Denis Puric, disagrees with the notion that Rodtang remains an aggressive fighter. In a recent Instagram reel from the official ONE Championship photoshoot, Denis Puric questioned Rodtang’s current fighting style, suggesting he’s not as aggressive as before.

Furthermore, in a pre-fight video, Denis Puric appears to be employing psychological warfare, targeting Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s physique and fitness with comments like “He looks soft, he looks soft, his body looks soft.” Whether these remarks hold weight or are simply trash talk remains to be seen, but they do raise questions about their potential impact on Rodtang mentally.

Undeterred by the comments, Rodtang seems eager to get back in the ring, especially after his loss to Superlek Kiatmoo9 last year. While known for his quiet demeanor outside the ring, Rodtang’s ferocity within the Circle is undeniable-speak for itself. Now, determined to get back on track, Rodtang looks to silence Puric’s boasts with a decisive win. As Rodtang Jitmuangnon himself stated, his response will be delivered through actions, not words.

Rodtang unbothered by Denis Puric’s comments

Rodtang Jitmuangnon has been out of the limelight for some time, but he will now be returning to the ONE Circle, desperate to respond to everything his opponent Denis Puric has said about him. Since his last injury and defeat at the hands of Superlek Kiatmoo9 in a Muay Thai match at ONE Fight Night 34, Rodtang is full of energy and ready to reply to Puric’s remarks.

Moreover, Rodtang Jitmuangnon is famous for his ability to use his opponent’s weaknesses to his advantage. At just 26 years old, he has the advantage of youth over Denis Puric, who is in his 40s. These verbal wars between fighters are normal; however, we have to wait till fight night to see if Rodtang Jitmuangnon will prove Denis Puric wrong.

Whose side are you on? Comment your thoughts below.