“I couldn’t do things that normal people do” - Takeru says he had to sacrifice a lot in pursuit of martial arts excellence

Takeru Segawa opened up about the sacrifices he made to become a world-class fighter.

Before signing with ONE Championship, Takeru established himself as a Japanese kickboxing superstar in K-1. 'The Natural Born Crusher' is a seven-time world champion in the promotion spread throughout three divisions.

At 33 years old, Takeru plans to continue building his legacy in ONE. Before looking forward to what's next, the Japanese legend opened up about his sacrifices in combat sports by saying this during an interview with the promotion:

"I couldn't do things that normal people do. Eating sweets, going out to play, drinking alcohol - things that normal young people do. But I've been able to spend even better time, so I don't feel like I've sacrificed anything."

In January, Takeru was supposed to make his ONE debut with a kickboxing bout against flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang. 'The Iron Man' ended up pulling out due to an injury, leading to Superlek stepping in on short notice and defending his flyweight kickboxing strap with a unanimous decision.

Takeru suffered horrific bruising to his leg against Superlek, postponing his return under the ONE banner.

Later this week, the Japanese kickboxing superstar will make his second promotional appearance with victory on his mind.

---

Takeru looks for first promotional win at ONE Friday Fights 81

On Friday, Sept. 27, Takeru Segawa will fight inside the legendary Lumpinee Stadium for the first time.

'The Natural Born Crusher' is scheduled to compete in the ONE Friday Fights 81 co-main event against Burmese standout Thant Zin.

Zin is a 19-year-old fighter from Myanmar. He made his promotional debut earlier this year and has since secured Muay Thai knockout wins against Jaising Sitnayokpansak and Tai Sor Jor Piek Uthai on the ONE Friday Fights Series.

Zin now looks to showcase his striking versatility with his first promotional kickboxing fight. It's no secret that the 19-year-old is a massive underdog against Takeru, so he could change his life forever with a win at ONE Friday Fights 81.

ONE Friday Fights 81 will be headlined by an action-packed bantamweight Muay Thai matchup between Superbon and Jo Nattawut. Friday's event can be seen by viewers via pay-per-view on watch.onefc.com.