It’s every athlete’s dream to become a world champion in their chosen sport. The statement rings true, especially for Thailand’s Rodlek PK.Saenchai Muaythaigym. Rodlek has wanted to become a ONE World Champion ever since he joined the organization in 2019. Now, he is one step closer to realizing his dream.
Rodlek will challenge Thai countryman and reigning ONE Bantamweight World Champion Nong-O Gaiyanghadao in the co-main event of ONE: COLLISION COURSE, which broadcasts live from the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Singapore this Friday, 18 December.
Rodlek fully expects the toughest test of his career thus far, against a man they consider a Muay Thai legend in practically every circle.
“I am very glad I can compete for this world title. This is my first time to compete for a world title in ONE Super Series, and it’s an honor. If I win this title, nothing will make me happier,” said Nong-O.
“Nong-O is a legend in this sport. He’s a complete fighter. He has all the tools and weapons. On top of that, he has all the experience. It’s going to be a tough fight for sure.”
At 30 years of age, Rodlek is four years younger than the defending champion. To compound matters, Nong-O hasn’t defended his title in over a year, having last fought in November 2019.
Rodlek, on the other hand, has already competed three times in 2020 alone, in the midst of a global pandemic, no less. His most recent bouts came in July and August, where he lost a majority decision to young phenom Saemapetch Fairtex, and then scored a dominant win over highly-regarded Kulabdam Sor. Jor. Piek-Uthai.
Rodlek expects to be the sharper man on fight night.
All factors considered, he is fully confident he can dethrone Nong-O and become the division’s new Muay Thai king. He is also counting on facing the toughest version of Nong-O possible, so he doesn’t expect it to be a walk in the park.
“Nong-O is older than I am, so he may be a bit slower than before. Age may play a factor, and it might affect his performance, but I’m not counting on it. That being said, he’s still very fast and powerful. It won’t be right to underestimate him,” said Rodlek.
“Fighting against Nong-O won’t be easy. The probability of beating the champion is very low. He’s seen everything in the sport, and knows how to prepare himself. But I will try to be the better man in the fight. Anything can happen. He’s a legend for a reason, so I won’t underestimate him.”
ONE: COLLISION COURSE is ONE Championship’s final live event of the year. The stacked card features a main event showdown between ONE Light Heavyweight Kickboxing World Champion Roman Kryklia of the Ukraine and challenger Andrei “Mister KO” Stoica of Romania.
If Rodlek can defeat Nong-O this Friday night, he would have accomplished his goal of becoming a ONE World Champion in front of millions watching around the globe.
“My goal has always been to be a ONE Super Series champion. That’s going to be the best moment of my life. ONE Championship is a global organization and is seen all over the world, not just in Thailand. It is my dream to showcase my skills in front of the world,” Rodlek concluded.
