"Carrying Japanese martial arts on my shoulders” - Takeru has an entire country behind him in monumental match vs Rodtang

Japanese megastar Takeru Segawa will have a huge home court advantage when he finally shares the ONE Championship ring with Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

'The Natural Born Crusher' will certainly receive a massive reception at Saitama Sports Arena in Japan in the curtain closer of ONE 172: Takeru vs Rodtang on March 23, 2025.

Takeru dominated the striking scene in Japan for many years, where he went on to become a three-division K-1 kickboxing world champion.

Seeking greater challenges, the 33-year-old speedster took his talents to the home of martial arts and proved that every bit of hype surrounding him was real.

The proud warrior from Sagamihara, Japan has always represented his country with each fight. Now, as he enters arguably the biggest match of his career, Takeru says he'll do his best to live up to the massive expectations of all his Japanese supporters.

The Team Vasileus representative said during the ONE 172 press conference in Tokyo:

"I fight carrying Japanese martial arts on my shoulders. I've fought carrying organizations and belts, which has had a positive influence."

Takeru has indeed captivated the hearts of many with his awe-inspiring performances in his first two matches under the ONE banner.

The credentialed striker fought tooth-and-nail against pound-for-pound great Superlek Kiatmoo9 and showed incredible heart.

Takeru bounced back from that humbling loss with another nail-biting comeback KO win over Thant Zin in his last outing.

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Takeru says he'll give everything he has in make-or-break fight with Rodtang

The delay of the Takeru-Rodtang megafight has only piqued the public's interest even more.

It's truly a stylistic match-up made in heaven, given the Japanese fan-favorite's unrelenting drive to win going up against Rodtang's sheer grit and ferocity.

For Takeru, this showdown will be the culmination of his life's work and he's ready to fight like his life depended on it.

'The Natural Born Crusher' told the media:

"I can't make any definitive statements about what might happen. I'm approaching this fight as if it's my last, giving everything I have. I'm only thinking about this fight. That's how much I'm investing in it."

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