Nong-O built his resume on devastating knockout power. His bantamweight title reign from 2018 included seven successful defenses, with five ending in knockout victories. That finishing ability remains his primary weapon as he pursues another belt at flyweight.
Rodtang’s durability has become legendary across more than 300 professional fights. His ability to absorb punishment while maintaining forward pressure has created the perception of an indestructible fighter. But Nong-O sees beyond the brawler reputation to recognize Rodtang’s technical sophistication and tactical intelligence.
“Rodtang is a durable fighter. He is tough,” said Nong-O.
“Some might view him [simply] as an aggressive fighter. For me, Rodtang has a really high fight IQ, and that is intimidating. I see him as an intelligent boxer in terms of [improvising].”
Rodtang’s recent 80-second knockout of Takeru Segawa at ONE 172 in March validated his finishing ability against elite competition. That performance demonstrated the technical precision underneath his aggressive style, proving his success comes from skill rather than just durability and pressure.
Nong-O acknowledges the difficulty of stopping someone with Rodtang’s reputation for toughness. But his career has been built on exploiting brief moments of vulnerability, and he plans to pursue those opportunities if they appear.
“It would be really challenging to have a knockout in this fight. So, I would love to win by score,” said Nong-O.
“But if there is good timing, I would totally go for the knockout because I’ve been preparing so many forms of strikes.”
Both fighters have experienced life changes that add motivation to this opportunity. Rodtang welcomed his first child in July, while Nong-O has two sons. The shared experience of fatherhood creates additional stakes beyond belts.
Nong-O expects that new responsibility has made Rodtang even more determined. Athletes fighting for their children’s future often discover reserves of motivation that transcend personal achievement.
“A father would want to do his best to show his child that he can do it. So, that could play a part,” said Nong-O.
“Rodtang is now a father. I am a father. So, that’s relatable.”
The tactical matchup features two elite Thai strikers with contrasting approaches. Nong-O’s calculated knockout skills faces Rodtang’s relentless pressure. Both possess finishing ability that could end the contest at any moment.
“I think both of us can make this fight really entertaining. After this fight, if he wins, he’s going to be a legend,” he said.
“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. Because it is all on your determination and your passion.”
