Superlek Kiatmoo9 capped off his 2023 in ONE Championship with a narrow decision win over Rodtang Jitmuangnon. Now, he has a chance to kickstart his 2024 with an even bigger victory. The Thai star will defend his ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title against Takeru Segawa at ONE 165 on Sunday, January 28.
To do so, Superlek will have to go into hostile territory. The event emanates from the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. While the stage could be too much for some, Superlek is excited about the possibility of spoiling the debut of the Japanese star.
“If I beat him in Japan, it’s going to be awesome. But to fight in Japan is not easy. Beating him is even less easy,” Superlek told ONE.
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That statement is perhaps understating the task at hand. Takeru is one of the finest strikers in the world, making this matchup one of the best fans will see all year. “The Kicking Machine” is wowed by what he has seen on video as he prepares for the challenge to his throne.
“His fighting style has karate and punches combined, like a scary melting pot. He’s good in his own way. Plus, he is durable,” Superlek explained.
Superlek has been noted as one of the most technical strikers on the planet. In 2023, he got to show off more of his finishing prowess by becoming more aggressive. However, that is not the expectation for the colossal showdown in Tokyo.
“What I need to be extra careful of against Takeru are his punches. He strikes so well in combination, too. I can’t be careless because he’s great with lots of experience. I can’t just be reckless, especially fighting a fighter at this level. Reckless isn’t even in the dictionary,” the reigning flyweight king expressed.
“The Kicking Machine” has shared the squared circle with the best the world has to offer. He will not be intimidated by the latest addition to ONE’s flyweight ranks. He was clear that he fears no man. While fear plays no part in Superlek’s preparation, the attention to detail will determine who walks out of Ariake Arena with the gold.
Already envisioning a victory, Superlek wants to unleash his biggest weapon. His nickname is not hyperbole. With Takeru’s speed and movement, Superlek plans to slow the pace down and stymie “The Natural Born Crusher.”
“[Takeru] and I have different styles. I’m slower but I have heavy weapons to save me. My stronger points would be my more powerful kicks. My kicks are powerful and can be effective against anyone. So, I could kick his legs to stop him from moving or slow him down,” Superlek said.
ONE 165 airs live on Sunday, January 28. The action begins at 3 a.m. EST/12 a.m. PST. The event is available via global pay-per-view at watch.onefc.com for $39.99.
