“Kings” – Denis Puric Likens Rodtang to Mentor Buakaw Banchamek Following Intense War at ONE 167

With the conclusion of the ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II promotional event, the rivalry between ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon and his contender, Denis Puric, seems to have ended. Since his debut, Puric has lobbied ONE to grant him a fight with Rodtang. Now, after their clash, both Rodtang and Denis Puric appear to have settled their differences, as evidenced by their recent viral post-fight pictures and video of them playing soccer together.

Additionally, a heartwarming video shared by ONE Championship, in which Denis Puric pays his respect to the legendary Buakaw and Rodtang, highlights the sportsmanship between these fighters and their growth beyond their past rivalry.

Denis Puric expresses his admiration for Buakaw and Rodtang Jitmuangnon

Long before joining the ONE Championship, Denis Puric was invited by Buakaw to train at his gym. While in Thailand, he trained with world-class competitors like Superbon Singha Mawynn and other fighters, including Petchtanong. They trained together, ate together, and became like family. His respect for Buakaw is profound, and now this respectable list also includes Rodtang Jitmuangnon, as seen in the viral reel on the Instagram handle of ONE Championship.

Furthermore, in the viral reel, just after the fight where both fighters hug each other, Denis Puric reveals his admiration for Rodtang. He said, “For me, I don’t care what people say. For me, you and Buakaw are kings, you understand? This is why I want to fight. I don’t care if I win or lose.” In between their conversations, Rodtang becomes a bit emotional.

However, Puric stops him and consoles him, asking him not to be stressed about anything. He assures Rodtang that he is always there for him whenever he needs him. Before this viral reel, Denis Puric’s coach uploaded a group picture on Instagram, acknowledging that fans must have enjoyed their fight.

Puric and Rodtang forge a friendship

Since his debut in the ONE Championship in 2022, #2-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender Denis Puric has consistently called for a match against Rodtang Jitmuangnon. However, at the time, he was not eligible. By winning back-to-back within 7 months, Puric reached the #2 ranking. This led to a thrilling fight against Rodtang in 2024, resulting in Rodtang emerging victorious.

After their fight, Denis Puric’s coach uploaded a picture on Instagram, including Rodtang and Puric in it, captioned, “I Hope You Were Entertained.” This indicated that everything between the two fighters was settled. In response, Rodtang also admired 39-year-old Puric for his dedication. Impressed by Puric’s determination, Rodtang acknowledged his ability to achieve a lot in a short timeframe.

Now, we have to see if Denis Puric becomes friends with Rodtang Jitmuangnon like Mikey Musumeci is close to him. Stay tuned for more.