For many combat sports athletes, their current sport was not the first choice. Take the current ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon, for example. Returning from injury, he’s ready to showcase his skills at the Impact Arena, Bangkok, on June 7th as the co-main event at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Jo Nattawut II. He’ll be facing the #2 ranked ONE Flyweight Muay Thai contender, Denis Puric.

However, while fans know Rodtang for his kickboxing and Muay Thai Championships achievements, some might not be aware that Muay Thai wasn’t his first choice. In fact, financial struggles and pressure pushed him towards the world of MMA. This hidden detail adds another layer to Rodtang’s story, highlighting the sacrifices and unexpected paths many athletes take to achieve greatness. Now, let’s take a look at how he ended up wearing the gloves.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s path to Muay Thai glory

Rodtang Jitmuangnon, widely recognized as one of the best Muay Thai fighters in ONE Championship, has overcome more than just opponents in the ring. He’s also triumphed over poverty. This self-made athlete, hailing from southern Thai province, grew up in difficult circumstances. While soccer was his initial interest, Rodtang revealed in an interview last year that it wouldn’t provide the financial security he needed for his family. So, he turned to Muay Thai.

Rodtang also admitted, “I didn’t like fighting, and I preferred soccer. But I was paid very little for playing soccer compared to Muay Thai“. He even revealed that he earned around $8 per fight back then. “I decided to compete in Muay Thai to earn more money to support my family,” the Thai champ added. He said, ” Now thanks to Muay Thai, I can buy a house for my parents and have enough money to take care of my family. Without it, I Wouldn’t be here today.”

Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s sacrifice, however, wasn’t just about fulfilling his family’s dream; it also fulfilled the dreams of his fans. Without Muay Thai, the world wouldn’t have witnessed the talent of “The Iron Man.” While his victories may appear effortless, the journey behind them wasn’t easy. Furthermore, Rodtang’s success extends beyond Muay Thai. He also captured the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship, inspiring the upcoming generation to work hard not only for themselves but also for their families.

Rodtang’s victory over poverty

Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s childhood was far from easy. His family’s income came from daily wage jobs, which barely covered their essential needs like food and shelter. Unlike most children who have leisure time for play, Rodtang’s childhood, however, was shaped by the need to contribute to the family’s income. His mother took on various odd jobs, such as washing dishes at funerals. Meanwhile, his father juggled two jobs. Unfortunately, even these provided little stability for the family.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon spoke fondly of his father, saying, “He was self-taught and very talented when it came to construction. He even built our family a simple but sturdy house.” Despite their struggles, Rodtang revealed they found happiness, although the constant effort left them exhausted. However, his father’s perseverance rubbed off on him.

Forged by adversity, Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s struggles have shaped him into the champion he is today. Now, he’s looking to bounce back from the injury he sustained during ONE Friday Fights 34: Rodtang vs. Superlek, where he fell to Superlek Kiatmoo9. This time, he is set to face Denis Puric. Whose side are you on? Comment down below.