Nong-O Hama has spent his legendary career discovering vulnerabilities that others miss, exploiting fleeting moments of weakness through devastating knockouts that have defined his resume across roughly 350 professional fights.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s superhuman durability presents perhaps the ultimate challenge for that finishing instinct. The 38-year-old former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion in Nong-O faces the near-indestructible Thai mega-icon for the vacant flyweight throne on November 16 at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, where he’ll hunt for the knockout that has eluded everyone else.

Rodtang’s steel jaw has become mythical across more than 300 fights where “The Iron Man” has absorbed punishment that would crumple ordinary fighters while marching forward with his trademark shrugs and grins. That impossible durability has created an aura of invincibility that surrounds the 28-year-old.

But Nong-O sees beyond the brawler reputation toward something more dangerous — the brilliant tactical mind orchestrating those relentless attacks. Rodtang’s March destruction of Takeru Segawa in just 80 seconds revealed the elite-level skills beneath his iron-chinned persona.

“Rodtang has a really high fight IQ, and that is intimidating,” Nong-O said. “His most powerful weapon is his fists. Those nice fists can give people knockouts.”

The veteran striker acknowledges hunting knockouts against Rodtang represents perhaps his toughest finishing challenge. Victory by decision seems more likely given the opponent’s legendary durability, yet Nong-O refuses to abandon his knockout instincts if precise timing creates opportunities.

“It would be really challenging to have a knockout in this fight,” he said. “But if there is good timing, I would totally go for the knockout because I’ve been preparing so many forms of strikes.”

Their collision carries additional emotional weight beyond vacant championship gold. Both warriors now fight as fathers — Rodtang welcomed his son Zlatan in July while Nong-O raises two boys of his own. That shared experience creates deeper motivation that transcends belts and bonuses.

Nong-O expects fatherhood has made Rodtang even more dangerous, understanding personally how becoming a father ignites determination to set examples for the next generation.

“If I beat Rodtang in this upcoming fight, I would like to send a message to all fighters that your age or your fight experience are not your obstacles,” he said. “Because it is all on your determination and your passion.”

READ MORE: UFC 321: Co-main event Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern Fight – Preview and Prediction

• Facebook
• X
• Instagram