Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon will finally mix it up in the ring during ONE 172. ONE Championship unveiled the flyweight super-fight at a press conference in Japan on Monday. The two striking wizards sounded off at the event and showed immense respect for one another.
The kickboxing bout will take place inside the Saitama Super Arena on Sunday, March 23. ONE 172 will play host to a star-studded lineup in Japan. However, Takeru and Rodtang’s showdown will be the match everyone is waiting to see.
Takeru Weighs In On Finally Facing Rodtang in March During ONE 172
“While it would have been good to face Rodtang in my ONE debut, it’s better that I’ve now adapted to ONE’s rules, gloves, ring, and conditions through various experiences. This was a necessary period for me. The anticipation has also built up. This, too, was destiny,” Takeru admitted.
IT'S OFFICIAL 🏆 Takeru and Rodtang's flyweight kickboxing super-fight is your five-round main event in Tokyo on March 23 at ONE 172! Are you backing "The Iron Man" or "The Natural Born Crusher"?#ONE172 | Sunday March 23 2025
More info 👉 https://t.co/9MjLEG6fIK pic.twitter.com/uHLYXhy99l— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) December 16, 2024
Takeru’s 2024 debut was supposed to be against Rodtang, but an injury forced “The Iron Man” out of action. Superlek Kiatmoo9 stepped in to defend the ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title. Takeru lost a decision on that night but returned at ONE Friday Fights 81 to knock out Thant Zin.
With the win under his belt, Takeru is feeling confident heading into the new year. The Japanese superstar noted Rodtang’s recent defensive improvements but feels ready for an epic showdown. There is nobody other than the Thai star that Takeru would love to face than Rodtang.
“Even if we weren’t in the same weight class, I don’t think there’s anyone else who matches up this well globally. That’s how much I wanted this fight. In my fight with Superlek, my style reflected how I’ve been training with Rodtang in mind. I’ve been thinking about and training for Rodtang for years, figuring out how to win in a striking match. I believe we can have the greatest striking battle,” Takeru said.
Rodtang Discusses Fight Against Takeru in ONE 172
The feeling is mutual. Rodtang is healthy and ready to tackle the Japanese star after back-to-back wins over Denis Puric and Jacob Smith. Rodtang is excited to return to Japan and compete in front of Takeru’s home audience in an effort to continue growing his worldwide acclaim.
“I have to thank all the Japanese fans who have welcomed me so warmly and supported me so well. I still stand by my previous statement that Japan is my second home. I always want to come and fight here again. It has been a long time since I have been back. I would like to show my fans in Japan and fans all over the world the opportunity. I hope that on the day I fight Takeru, everyone will come to see me. More or less, but I would like everyone to come and see me. It will be like fighting at home again. I would like everyone to support me on that day. I will do my best and get the win so that I can challenge the current champion,” the Thai star said.
Rodtang echoed Takeru’s sentiment that their styles mesh perfectly for a memorable fight on March 23. “The Iron Man” went a step further, stating that Takeru would be the best striker he has ever faced. The lofty expectations have this matchup at ONE 172 set as one of combat sport’s biggest matches of 2025.
“For me, Takeru is the best striker I’ve ever fought with. I think he is truly a superstar, and he has a heart of Bushido similar to mine. I think it’s a blessing that I get to meet a superstar like Takeru, and I will definitely not make a mistake again,” Rodtang claimed.
Fans should expect more national flavor from this event. ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong said to expect many more of the country’s biggest stars to compete on the event. He hopes to bring the best martial arts action back to Japan since the days of PRIDE in ONE 172.
“We also want [Masaaki] Noiri, KANA, [Hiroki] Akimoto, and others to compete. Of course, legend Shinya Aoki will also fight. The card will feature Japan vs. the World matchups. This event is a must-watch for everyone, whether you’re a fan or not. This will be the most-watched event in Japanese martial arts history,” Sityodtong said.
ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang airs live on Sunday, March 23, from the Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
