Fatherhood transformed Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s world beyond recognition. The Thai superstar discovered a new kind of struggle based on patience instead of power.
Rodtang faces Nong-O Hama for the vacant ONE Flyweight Muay Thai world title AN 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The 28-year-old megastar welcomes this title opportunity as he adjusts to life with his first child, a son named Zlatan, born in July 2025.
The six-time ONE World Champion built his reputation on ruthless aggression in more than 300 professional fights. Born into poverty in Phatthalung, Thailand, he entered the ring as a child to change his family’s fortunes. That iron spirit took him around the world and made his name synonymous with sustainability.
But everything changed when Zlatan arrived. The same fighter who once lived only for the next challenge now finds joy in simple moments. Football is his favorite escape from the spotlight, offering different opportunities each week to clear his head and reconnect with what’s important.
He plans to share that passion with his son, not as a career mandate, but as a bridge between two worlds. Whether Zlatan chooses martial arts or something else does not matter to the proud father.
“My baby recently turned two months old. His name is Zlatan,” he said.
“I like everything about it. It’s a father-and-son thing and I mean, I love kids. I like playing with them.”
Rodtang Jitmuangnon explains the inspiration for football legends
Zlatan Ibrahimovic dominated European football for two decades with an unorthodox flair shaped by his taekwondo black belt background. That martial arts foundation created the acrobatic style that made him one of football’s most distinctive strikers.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon watched the Swedish icon while he was working during his prime. The character and aggressive playing style resonated deeply with the young Thai fighter who was struggling to make ends meet.
Both men built a reputation on trust that sometimes seemed misunderstood. They blur the line between art and attitude through bold self-expression. By naming his son after Ibrahimovic passed on a mentality that celebrates individuality and courage.
“The Iron Man” maintains his demanding training habits despite the new responsibilities. Fatherhood simply added a deeper purpose to everything he does. His extended family includes about two dozen cousins who all receive the same treatment during outings.
“I have nephews and nieces. I love them all, 20 of them,” he said.
“When we go to 7-ELEVEN, we all go together. If I buy one toy, everyone else should get one too. It’s happiness.”
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