Rodtang Jitmuangnon never imagined standing across the ring from Nong-O Hama would become reality, yet on November 16 at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, the two Thai icons collide for the vacant ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship in the most emotionally devastating fight of either man’s career.

The matchup carries profound weight beyond titles and rankings. When Rodtang arrived in ONE Championship as a hungry young prospect from Phatthalung, Thailand, Nong-O became family — a teacher, mentor, and brother whose 1,526-day bantamweight reign across seven consecutive title defenses represented everything the rising star aspired to become.

That connection makes this championship clash so heartbreaking. Rodtang’s initial reaction to the announcement wasn’t excitement but sadness, his admiration too deep to imagine trading leather with someone he considers far superior to himself. He’d publicly stated he never wanted this fight, yet with both men ranked at flyweight and the division demanding an undisputed champion, duty called louder than personal feelings.

“I respect and look up to Nong-O as my teacher. He always took care of me. I even said back then that I never wanted to face Nong-O in ONE because I respect him so much. But it has come to the point where we have to find the undisputed #1 in the division. Since both Nong-O and I are in the rankings, the time has come for us to meet. I had to reluctantly agree,” Rodtang said.

The opportunity represents redemption beyond emotional complexity. Losing his flyweight title on the scales last year left unfinished business burning in Rodtang’s heart, while his stunning 80-second knockout of Takeru at ONE 172 in March provided momentum heading into Tokyo — his self-proclaimed “second home” where Japanese fans have embraced him completely.

Fighting in Japan adds fuel to his fire as he pursues his 275th career victory and championship gold, yet beneath the competitive intensity lies something beautiful that transcends sport. Rodtang’s message to Nong-O contained no trash talk or psychological warfare, only heartfelt respect between fighters about to showcase their art.

“Give it your all, my brother,” Rodtang said. “Let’s showcase the art of Muay Thai for everyone to see so that our fight will be just as exciting as any other fights on the card. No matter what happens in the ring, no matter how the fight ends or how fierce it is, win or lose, it’s a sport, and I love and respect you just the same.”

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