The ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai Tournament came and went, and Rodlek PK.Saenchai Muaythaigym earned his rightful place as the next contender to ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Gaiyanghadao.

The reigning titleholder watched closely as his compatriot scorched “Left Meteorite” Kulabdam Sor. Jor. Piek Uthai in the tournament final on 28 August at ONE: A NEW BREED in Bangkok, Thailand.

Despite taking some early damage, the PK.Saenchai Muaythaigym representative dropped Kulabdam twice over three rounds en route to a unanimous decision win in the Thai capital, proving he will present a serious test for Nong-O.

What wasn’t so serious, however, was Rodlek’s post-fight interview, which highlighted not only the Thai’s humility, but his humor as well.

“I hope you’re ready for me so we can have a good fight,” Rodlek said.

“Or, I hope you let it loose on me a little bit so maybe I could win, and I could become a World Champion,” he added with a laugh.

Nong-O, who’s currently based in Singapore at Evolve MMA, praised Rodlek for his performance, but he also sent a reminder that he, too, will show up in his best form when they meet after international travel restrictions are lifted between Singapore and Thailand.

“Congratulations to you, Rodlek. You did a very good job. You had a very good game plan and stayed in control. When we meet in our next fight, I will do my best,” Nong-O said, before adding a bit of humor himself.

“You too, please not too hard on me.”

This showdown will be a clash between two of the hardest-hitting bantamweight Muay Thai athletes in the world, and when they enter the ring, they will surely put the jokes aside – at least until the post-fight interviews.

In the meantime, download the ONE Super App to watch the previously recorded ONE: A NEW BREED II on Friday, 11 September, for free.

Read More From ONE Championship:

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Nong-O Staying Ready For World Title Defense Against Rodlek