ONE Championship’s Rodtang Jitmuangnon denied entry to Canada for seminar tour over visa issue at airport
- ONE’s flyweight Muay Thai champion reportedly subjected to four-hour interview by a border agent after landing in Toronto
- Rodtang was turned away on suspicion he intended to settle and seek employment in Canada, one of gyms set to host Thai superstar says
ONE Championship’s Rodtang Jitmuangnon was reportedly denied entry to Canada last week for a Muay Thai seminar tour because of a visa issue.
The 26-year-old Thai – ONE’s flyweight Muay Thai champion – had landed at Toronto Pearson Airport on November 10, ahead of seven planned seminars at five different gyms in Toronto, Calgary and Victoria, from November 11 to 26.
But after a four-hour interview at customs, Rodtang was turned away by a Canadian Border Services agent on the suspicion he intended to settle and seek employment in Canada, according to the event promoter.
Rodtang had valid work visas and all of the necessary documentation he needed for his visit, the promoter said.
The rest of Rodtang’s team was reportedly granted access to the country.
Rodtang has yet to comment on the situation, but has now flown back to Thailand, the Post understands.
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Calgary gym Champions Creed MMA wrote an Instagram post on Sunday telling its members the two seminars with Rodtang on November 18 and 19 had been cancelled again.
“Dear Rodtang fans, terrible news,” the post said. “Last night, Rodtang and his crew touched down in Toronto, eager to bring their expertise to the eagerly awaiting fans across Canada.
“However, we have been informed by the promoter despite meticulous preparations and proper documentation, their journey took an unexpected turn.
“Following a lengthy four-hour process at Canada Customs, Rodtang’s crew gained admission, but the Canada Border Services Agency inexplicably denied entry to the esteemed fighter.
“A CBSA agent, adopting a notably challenging stance, levied unfounded accusations against Rodtang, suggesting an intent to permanently settle and seek employment in Canada.
“The event promoter had diligently arranged all necessary documentation, including a valid work visa for Rodtang to legally conduct the scheduled seminars. Despite this setback, our commitment to transparency and ethical conduct remains unwavering.
“To those who have shown unwavering support, we express our deepest gratitude. The response has been nothing short of incredible, with 200 tickets already sold.
“In light of this unforeseen circumstance, rest assured that all ticket holders will be promptly refunded.”
Rodtang is set to return to action early next year, once his hand injury has fully healed.
He has two blockbuster potential fights on the horizon – a rematch with Superlek, or a highly anticipated kickboxing clash with Japanese icon Takeru Segawa.
