A New Chapter in the Life of Rodtang Jitmuangnon
For years, Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon has been a force of nature inside the ring – a whirlwind of elbows, punches, and unbreakable determination that few opponents have managed to withstand. But outside the confines of the arena, the Thai Muay Thai sensation is now navigating a different kind of challenge: fatherhood.
In July 2025, the 28-year-old global star and his wife, Aida Looksaikongdin, welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Zlatan. This new role has brought a fresh perspective to Rodtang’s life, reshaping not only how he trains but also how he views the world around him.
Rodtang shared:
“My baby turned 2 months old recently. His name is Zlatan. I like everything about it. It’s father-and-son thing, and I mean, I like kids. I love playing with them.”
Fatherhood hasn’t just added a new chapter to his life; it has softened his outlook. Growing up in a poor family in Phatthalung, Thailand, Rodtang learned to fight before he knew the meaning of rest. He entered the ring as a young boy, driven by the need to change his family’s fortune, and never looked back. That same iron will carried him across the globe, where over 300 fights earned him a reputation for aggression, resilience, and showmanship.
But these days, the same fighter who once chased the next challenge now finds joy in sharing. He ensures that everyone gets a piece of happiness, whether it’s with his nephews and nieces or during simple outings.
“I have nephews and nieces. I love all of them, two dozen of them. When we go to 7-ELEVEN, we all go together. If I buy one a toy, everyone else needs to get one. It’s happiness.”
When he’s away from the noise of stadiums and the spotlight, Rodtang’s favorite escape is soccer. He plays several times a week to clear his mind and reconnect with fun. This sport, which he plans to share with his son, isn’t about a career path but rather a bridge between the worlds of the fighter and the father.
“The pride of Thailand said:
“I like playing soccer. I want to bring him. I like [Muay Thai] and I want to bring him to the gym, or do whatever he is interested in to spend time together.”
Since becoming a father, Rodtang hasn’t slowed down. In fact, it has given him more purpose to fight for something greater than himself. While he maintains the same rigorous habits, the reason behind them has changed.
He explained:
“Having a child now, I understand the perspective of a father, as well as how to be present to my child. Those who really know me would know how down-to-earth I am.”
The Inspiration Behind His Son’s Name
The name Zlatan came from admiration. A lifelong soccer fan, Rodtang often spends his downtime on the pitch rather than in the gym. Among all the stars he admires, one stood out above the rest.
He explained:
“Regarding my son’s name, I grew up during Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s prime time. I was working a bad job back then. I watched him play with my boss and I admired him. With his character and style, he was a God to me.”
While Rodtang respects other football icons like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, it was Zlatan’s unique lifestyle that inspired him. Known for his boldness, flair, and creativity, Ibrahimovic became a symbol of confidence and individuality.
A Swedish football legend with over two decades at the highest level, Ibrahimovic was renowned for his record-breaking goals and unconventional style. His background as a black belt in taekwondo influenced his acrobatic and unpredictable approach on the field.
Like Ibrahimovic, Rodtang built his reputation on confidence – bold, expressive, and sometimes misunderstood. Both men blur the line between art and attitude.
By naming his son after the Swedish icon, Rodtang wasn’t just choosing a name; he was passing down a mindset that celebrates individuality, courage, and joy.
When asked if he’s already thought about names for future children, he chuckled. Half serious, half playful, he answered with the same grin he’d show after trading blows in a fight:
“If I had a daughter, I would name her Moana.”