By Jacob Smith’s path to the cusp of stardom at ONE Championship has been anything but conventional. Raised in Birkenhead, Liverpool, his early years were marked by promising football prospects, even earning trials at Everton Football Club. However, a pivotal decision redirected his trajectory.
Opting out of football, Smith found himself navigating the challenging landscape of his surroundings, entangled in local gangs and uncertain prospects. It wasn’t until he crossed paths with his future wife, Rebekah, that Smith’s life took a transformative turn.
Rebekah, already immersed in the world of Muay Thai, presented Smith with a choice: embrace a path of discipline and potential or remain mired in an uncertain future. He chose the former, dedicating himself to the rigorous discipline of Muay Thai, a decision fueled by the desire to provide a better life for his family.
With unwavering determination, Smith honed his skills, eventually catching the attention of ONE Championship. Despite an initial setback in his promotional debut against Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Smith’s resilience shone through as he embarked on a remarkable seven-fight winning streak, culminating in a spectacular knockout victory over Walter Goncalves.
Now positioned among the division’s elite, Smith eagerly anticipates his shot at the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title. With aspirations of championship glory, he remains steadfast in his pursuit, driven by the belief that his journey from troubled youth to championship contender is a testament to the power of determination and resilience.
