“Rodtang is truly strong” - Takeru Segawa readies for explosive matchup against ‘The Iron Man’

Second-ranked ONE Championship flyweight kickboxing contender 'The Natural Born Crusher' Takeru Segawa of Japan is ripped and ready to go for his ONE 172 showdown against Muay Thai megastar 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

Takeru has been clamoring for a big fight with the former ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion for an entire year. Now, the monumental matchup has finally been signed.

All that's left is to deliver.

Speaking to the media at the official ONE 172 press conference in Tokyo this week, Takeru gave praise to Rodtang ahead of their blockbuster duel.

'The Natural Born Crusher' said:

"Rodtang is truly strong. While he's known for brawling and intensity, he has incredible technique. He has Muay Thai skills."

Takeru made his ONE Championship debut earlier this year, when he faced Thai star 'The Kicking Machine' Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 165 last January.

Unfortunately for the Japanese kickboxing icon, Takeru dropped a close unanimous decision to the pound-for-pound great. He then returned in September, surviving an early scare against Myanmar rising star Thant Zin to win by second-round knockout.

Now, Takeru is getting set to face his toughest test yet in 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

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Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon ready to deliver the goods at ONE 172 in Tokyo

The world's largest martial arts organization will return to Japan early next year, as it heads to Saitama Super Arena on Sunday, March 23, 2025 for ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang.

The event broadcasts live in Asia primetime.

In the main event, Japanese kickboxing megastar 'The Natural Born Crusher' Takeru Segawa faces former flyweight Muay Thai world champion 'The Iron Man' Rodtang Jitmuangnon in a five-round flyweight kickboxing super-fight.

Fans in the United States and Canada can visit ONE Championship's official website for more information on how to watch from their location. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event as it happens.