“If you do not answer my challenge, the fans will know why” - Rodtang calls out Takeru Segawa

Kickboxing superstar Takeru Segawa and Muay Thai phenom 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon may be on a collision course. Combat sports fans are enthusiastic about what the future may hold.

Recently, the three-division world champion Takeru relinquished his world titles and left K-1 Kickboxing and his gym KREST. The Japanese megastar revealed that he is currently a free agent. On social media, Takeru announced:

"As of October 31st, I have fulfilled and ended my contract with K-1 and KREST. As of this point, my career will be a challenge across nations and organizations as Takeru, an undecorated combat athlete. I hope to use up the rest of my life with all my might so I can inspire dreams and motivation to all of the combat sports world."

Without any hesitation, 'The Iron Man' issued his challenge to Takeru on Instagram:

"I’m personally calling out [Takeru Segawa] for a fight in ONE. If you do not answer my challenge, the fans will know why"

Rodtang has held onto the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title with an iron grip. Rodtang vs. Takeru has the combat sports world chatting with elation as this would be an all-star kickboxing world champion facing a well-decorated Muay Thai great.

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A history of conflict between Rodtang and Takeru

This is not the first time that the two combat sports stars have called each other out for a fight. In 2021, Takeru asked for a match against the Muay Thai phenom:

“I want to fight him. Please K-1 call Rodtang."

'The Iron Man' responded:

“I would love to fight Takeru. Some people tagged me in posts where he had called me out. He is a very strong fighter under kickboxing rules, strong hands and he loves to fight. it would be hard to make this fight happen I think but I would love to fight him on a ONE Championship card so we can see who is the best.”

Takeru was on a 35-fight win streak and was unbeaten going as far back as 2012. This year, he was in a super fight against long-time rival Tenshin Nasukawa. Kickboxing phenom Tenshin now holds close and contentious victories over both Rodtang and Takeru.

The 25-year-old Thai-born fighter will next defend his world title against fellow world champion Joseph Lasiri. The all-champions showdown between 'The Iron Man' and Lasiri is booked for ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18.