Rodtang Jitmuangnon has officially returned to ONE Championship, the world's largest martial arts organization.
The former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion announced his return on his birthday at a press conference held at Jitmuangnon Gym in Nonthaburi, Thailand.
Rodtang's return to ONE comes after a highly publicized departure from the organization in 2024. He was stripped of his title due to failing to make weight and pass hydration testing ahead of his scheduled World Title defense against Jacob Smith.
Rodtang made his high-profile promotional debut in 2018 and quickly established himself as a force in the flyweight Muay Thai division. He earned a shot at then-ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Jonathan "The General" Haggerty in 2019 and outclassed the British superstar to claim the gold.
The reign that followed was one of the greatest in flyweight Muay Thai history, with Rodtang defending his belt against the division's top challengers. However, his title run came to an abrupt end in 2024.
Despite the setback, Rodtang's career has continued to thrive. He took on Japanese kickboxing legend Takeru "Natural Born Krusher" Segawa at ONE 172 in March 2025 and delivered a stunning 80-second knockout victory.
However, their rematch at ONE SAMURAI 1 earlier this year ended in defeat for Rodtang, as Takeru stopped him in the fifth round to claim the ONE Interim Flyweight Kickboxing World Title.
Rodtang has spoken about his desire to return to ONE and reclaim the belt he believes he never truly lost. "I don't think any other career could have given me the recognition and ability to provide for my family the way being a fighter has," he said. "I'll keep giving it my all until I no longer have the strength to fight."
With his return to ONE confirmed, fans are eagerly anticipating Rodtang's next move. Will he target the flyweight Muay Thai division or focus on regaining the kickboxing title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Rodtang's legend is far from over.
Source: Yahoo Sports