Reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek “The Kicking Machine” Kiatmoo9 is now just days away from his much-anticipated World Title defense against longtime flyweight Muay Thai king Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon. The two Thai athletes will clash in the main event of ONE Fight Night 8 on Prime Video, set to air in U.S. primetime live from the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Friday, March 24.
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The showdown brings together two of the world’s top pound-for-pound strikers and, of course, has fans salivating. For Superlek, the fight will be his chance to earn the reputation of ONE’s most dangerous striker and put an end to Rodtang’s 13-fight unbeaten streak in striking bouts in ONE. Here are three reasons why Superlek could take out “The Iron Man” this Friday.
#1 His Kicking Game Could Be Kryptonite For Rodtang’s Aggression
Unsurprisingly, the man known as “The Kicking Machine” possesses some of the planet’s most venomous kicks. He will look to use them early and often against Rodtang. Whether he’s throwing punishing leg kicks, stabbing front kicks to the body, or concussive head kicks, Superlek can do it all with his lower body.
READ MORE – “The Champion Can’t Ignore Me Anymore” – Rodtang Jitmuangnon Motivated to Snatch Superlek’s World Title
His opponent, meanwhile, is known for his endless aggression and forward movement. Rather than engaging Rodtang in a close-quarters brawl, Superlek would be wise to use his long-range kicks to control the distance, slow his foe’s attack, and, ultimately, score a sensational knockout.
#2 His Reach Advantage
In addition to his thunderous kicking game, the 27-year-old titleholder also holds a reach advantage over the challenger. Superlek owns a 4-inch wingspan advantage and a 3-inch leg reach advantage, both of which should come in handy against Rodtang.
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Controlling the distance will be key to his world title contest. “The Kicking Machine” has the physical traits to keep his opponent at long range where he does his best work.
#3 His Impeccable Fight IQ
Finally, the flyweight kickboxing king might be the most cerebral, tactically minded striker in the world. That careful, strategic approach should serve as a weapon against Rodtang, who, despite being an electrifying entertainer, often fights with reckless emotion.
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Always mindful of his opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, Superlek will come into this bout extremely well-prepared. The kickboxer will fight with control, but with ruthless intent, taking advantage of any openings, Rodtang leaves him.