‘You Will Know What Hell On Earth Is’ – Rodtang Responds To Denis Puric Ahead Of ONE 167
Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon is ready to give Denis “The Bosnian Menace” Puric his dream fight in ONE Championship.
After being sidelined due to injury, the Thai superstar will return in a flyweight kickboxing clash against the Canadian-Bosnian slugger at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Prime Video in U.S. primetime on Friday, June 7.
Puric has called out Rodtang at every opportunity since he first entered the world’s largest martial arts organization, and the pair will finally throw down inside a packed-out Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.
The reigning ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion has taken his rival’s callouts in stride, admiring “The Bosnian Menace’s” desire to face the best of the best.
He spoke to onefc.com ahead of their upcoming battle:
“I have known Denis Puric for a long time. Since he first joined ONE, he has been calling for me from the beginning. Thank you for always thinking of me.
“I respect him for his determination because it’s really difficult to run through many opponents to reach me. You have to fight to put yourself into the rankings to challenge me. He tried his best and managed to face me. I have to respect his fighting spirit.”
Puric put himself within touching distance of Rodtang with a recent victory over Jacob Smith that pushed him to the #2 spot in ONE’s flyweight Muay Thai rankings.
Although they’ll meet in a kickboxing clash, “The Iron Man” thinks Puric’s performances have been impressive enough to make his dream become a reality.
With three wins in his last four outings and the only defeat coming to Lumpinee and Rajadamnern Stadium Muay Thai World Champion Yodlekpet “The Destroyer” Or Atchariya, Rodtang believes the “The Bosnian Menace” has earned this opportunity the right way.
He said:
“Puric built himself up to call me out. It’s his right to do that. He wants to fight with the best. I just waited for ONE’s matchmakers to approve it because I’m ready to fight anyone.
“He is very good. He beat Tagir Khalilov and Jacob Smith, so I think he deserves to face me. In his fight with Yodlekpet, I could see this guy is a veteran fighter, and he is more than ready to fight me.”
Rodtang Remains Humble Despite Puric’s Taunts
Although he’s been one of the most dominant athletes in ONE history, Rodtang Jitmuangnon has not let that success get to his head.
The 26-year-old still places every opponent on his level, which keeps him motivated to work hard in the gym.
That’s the same with Denis Puric, who he views as a skilled fighter with lots to offer. However, “The Iron Man” also sees weaknesses that he plans to exploit.
He offered:
“I never think that I had an advantage over anyone. I just want to do my best in every fight. Everyone has talent and strength. I never underestimate my opponent. They’re all good. I need to do my homework as best I can.
“Denis’ strengths are that he can get in and out quickly. And he is a heavy hitter, good at countering with punches, kicks, and knees.
“His weakness is that he seems to run out of gas at the end of the round. And his weak body will be a good target for me.”
Puric’s pre-fight comments haven’t been quite as polite, with the 39-year-old stating that he will “make a fool out of” Rodtang when they go toe-to-toe.
“The Iron Man” isn’t taking the bait, and he promises to compete in the same way he always does – with aggression, intensity, and power.
With that in mind, Rodtang sent a final message to his upcoming opponent:
“Let’s see how it goes in the ring. I’m glad you think that I’m no match for you. Thank you for calling me out. See you on June 7, when you will know what hell on earth is.”
