Former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Hama is preparing for a high-profile all-Thai clash against former flyweight champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon in the quarterfinals of the 2026-27 ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix on November 13.

The much-anticipated bout will headline the action at The Inner Circle 38, taking place at Bangkok's iconic Lumpinee Stadium, with fans able to watch the event live through live.onefc.com.

The encounter brings together two of Thailand's biggest Muay Thai stars, whose paths were originally set to cross at ONE 173 last year for the vacant flyweight title. However, Rodtang was forced to withdraw after falling ill, leaving the eagerly awaited contest postponed.

Nong-O Acknowledges Rodtang's Strength and Aggression

At 40, Nong-O brings extensive experience and an impressive professional record of 268 wins and 59 defeats into the tournament. Despite his achievements, the veteran is fully aware of the challenge posed by Rodtang, who is widely regarded as one of the most recognisable Muay Thai fighters in the world.

The Jitmuangnon Gym star, nicknamed 'The Iron Man', is currently the No. 2-ranked contender and a former six-time ONE World Champion. Known for his relentless pressure, durability, and powerful punching, Rodtang remains determined to reclaim the flyweight title.

Nong-O has also acknowledged the qualities that make his opponent such a dangerous competitor.

"Rodtang's biggest strength is his wild, aggressive fighting style. I love watching him fight - it's thrilling, action-packed, and super satisfying to watch. He has incredible toughness, relentless pressure, and devastating punch power," Nong-O said. Thai Veteran Ready for an All-Out Battle

Despite recognising Rodtang's aggressive approach, Nong-O has no intention of allowing the younger fighter to dictate the contest.

The former champion expects Rodtang to apply pressure from the opening bell but believes his own experience will help him handle the challenge.

"Rodtang is definitely going to come out aggressive because he's younger and will try to press the veteran. But as a veteran, I'm certainly not backing down easily either. I'm fully prepared to bang with him," he said.

The fight also carries a personal connection, as Rodtang has previously revealed that he looked up to Nong-O as an idol during his childhood. However, their friendship will take a back seat once they step inside the ring.

Grand Prix Victory Could Bring Nong-O Closer to Flyweight Gold

A victory at The Inner Circle 38 would secure Nong-O a place in the semifinals of the 2026-27 ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix, keeping his ambition of capturing another ONE World Championship firmly alive.

For Rodtang, the contest represents another opportunity to move closer to reclaiming the flyweight crown and reinforcing his position among the sport's elite.

Despite the competitive stakes, Nong-O has made it clear that respect between the two fighters will remain intact beyond the contest.

"To Rodtang, since this is a tournament fight, let's give the fans an absolute war. We're brothers before and after the fight, but once we step inside that ring, we can lay it all on the line and hold nothing back," he said.

With two of Thailand's most celebrated fighters set to share the ring, their Grand Prix quarterfinal promises to be one of the standout Muay Thai contests of the year.

Story first published: Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 15:51 [IST]

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