Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon: Balancing Muay Thai Dominance and Soccer Passion
When he’s not training to defend his ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title, Rodtang Jitmuangnon—widely recognized as “The Iron Man”—finds joy and relaxation on the soccer pitch. The Thai megastar has not only mastered the art of Muay Thai but has also embraced soccer as a vital aspect of his life, showcasing how multiple passions can coexist, especially for someone as remarkable as him.
Preparation for the World Title Showdown
Currently gearing up for the much-anticipated World Title showdown against #3-ranked contender Jacob Smith on November 8, at the prestigious Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Rodtang continues to integrate his love for soccer into his training regimen. This highly publicized matchup comes two years after their thrilling first encounter in 2022, and it marks the 27-year-old’s sixth defense of his coveted title. With millions of fans eagerly watching, the pressure is palpable, but Rodtang has found his own ways to cope with the high-stakes environment, often turning to soccer as an outlet.
“I play soccer to have fun and relax from work,” Rodtang shared. This simple yet profound statement reveals how he balances the intensity of professional combat sports with the enjoyment of playing a game he loves.
Soccer: A Portal to Fun and Friendship
Rodtang’s relationship with soccer began in his school days and has remained steadfast ever since. He expresses a significant commitment to the sport, often playing three to four days a week. For him, soccer is not just a physical activity; it’s also an opportunity to bond with friends. The camaraderie he shares with fellow athletes, including ONE superstars like Superlek Kiatmoo9 and Superbon, makes the experience even more enriching.
“It’s a fun sport and there are a lot of friends to play with,” he explains, illuminating the social aspect of soccer. Whether it’s practicing skills or playing friendly matches, this shared interest among fighters fosters a tight-knit community, where mutual respect goes beyond the ring.
A Dream Connects Two Icons: Rodtang and Messi
The Thai star’s love for soccer has not only kept him active outside the ring but has also led to a heartwarming interaction with global soccer legend Lionel Messi. Late last year, Messi, playing for Inter Miami, sent Rodtang a signed jersey with the heartfelt message: “To Rodtang with love, Lionel Messi.” This gesture resonated deeply with Rodtang, marking a cherished moment in his fandom.
“It means very much to me. I put this shirt in the frame and hung it on the wall,” Rodtang confesses, reflecting on how this gift symbolizes a dream realized for anyone who shares a passion for soccer. Displaying the jersey was not merely an act of pride; it underscored the profound respect and admiration he holds for the Argentinian icon.
Yearning for a Shared Experience with Messi
Receiving a jersey signed by Messi, for Rodtang, made him feel like a kid at heart. Aside from being a fighter, he is a fan who imagines the day he could share the soccer field with Messi. “I want to play soccer with him, and for sure, I would teach him Muay Thai,” he exclaimed with excitement. This playful notion of an athlete from two entirely different yet respectable disciplines coming together on the field illustrates Rodtang’s whimsical nature and passion for his sport.
Balancing Athleticism and Passion
Rodtang Jitmuangnon embodies the essence of duality in sports. As he prepares for a historic title defense, the Thai fighter remains committed to nurturing his other interests, demonstrating that it’s not only possible but also beneficial to harmonize intense professional aspirations with leisurely pursuits like soccer. For Rodtang, the pitch is a sanctuary—a place where the pressures of championship fights fade away, and friendships grow, reminding him of the joy and happiness athletics can bring.
As he continues to shine as a fierce competitor in Muay Thai, Rodtang’s love for soccer offers a window into his personality, making him not just a champion but also a relatable figure in the world of sports. Whether he’s defending his title or playing a casual match with friends, Rodtang remains a multifaceted athlete who appreciates every aspect of athleticism and camaraderie.
