Nong-O beats Rodtang to reach ONE flyweight Grand Prix semi-final
The 40-year-old will face Japan’s Shimon Yoshinari after scoring a unanimous-decision victory at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium.
Nong-O Hama knocked down Rodtang Jitmuangnon on his way to a unanimous-decision win at The Inner Circle 38 in Bangkok, advancing to the semi-finals of ONE Championship’s flyweight Muay Thai Grand Prix. The victory came three days after his 40th birthday.
A second-round elbow from Nong-O cut Rodtang above the eyebrow before a high kick to the neck sent him to the canvas. Rodtang recovered before the eight-count ended and resumed attacking. In the final round, Nong-O used clinches to limit the exchanges as Rodtang pursued a finish.
Nong-O told the Bangkok Post he had remained confident despite doubts about his chances. His preparation included work with training partners Superbon and Petchtanong Petchfergus on countering Rodtang’s pressure. Asked about retirement, he said the decision on when to stop would be his own.
His next opponent, Japan’s Shimon Yoshinari, earned a unanimous decision over Ramadan Ondash at ONE Friday Fights 178. Nong-O said Yoshinari’s kicking speed and their difference in height would be factors in his preparations.
The result gave Nong-O consecutive victories following his June win over Kongthoranee Sor Sommai. Two more wins could secure a world championship in another weight division. The final will offer both the flyweight championship and the Grand Prix’s silver belt.
Reigning champion Asadula Imangazaliev, who stopped Nong-O in March, is scheduled to defend against Aslamjon Ortikov at The Inner Circle 39 on November 20. Black Panther and Ubaid Hussain meet in the other quarter-final at that event.
