Takeru says Rodtang’s tactical mastery has shown in recent fights: "He's not just a strong brawler" 

Japanese superstar Takeru Segawa has been impressed by Rodtang Jitmuangnon's ability to bank on other facets of his game apart from the high-octane style that turned him into a global superstar.

Since he arrived in the world's largest martial arts organization, the former three-division K-1 kickboxing world champion has seen 'The Iron Man' build a 2-0 run against Denis Puric and Jacob Smith at ONE 167 and ONE 169, respectively.

Rodtang’s action-only style certainly laid the foundation for him to secure those wins, but the former ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion did showcase some adjustments to his game that took Takeru by surprise.

Speaking at the official press conference to announce ONE 172 in March next year, 'The Natural Born Crusher' noted:

"In recent fights, he's shown detailed defensive skills. He's not just a strong brawler."

During the same presser, the promotion officially confirmed their blockbuster return to Japan inside the Saitama Super Arena will be headlined by Rodtang and Takeru's hotly anticipated showdown. They lock horns in a five-round flyweight kickboxing war.

The pair were supposed to cross paths in the ONE 165 main event in the "Land of the Rising Sun" this past January, but an injury to the Thai hero forced him out of their super fight.

They will now have a much grander venue to shine and provide combat sports enthusiasts with a kickboxing war of the ages on the global stage.

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Adriano Moraes vs Yuya Wakamatsu joins Rodtang and Takeru at ONE 172

Another Japanese sensation will have a chance to make a statement upon ONE's return to Japan.

No.2-ranked Yuya Wakamatsu, fresh off his third successive promotional win against Gilbert Nakatani at ONE Fight Night 26, and former divisional kingpin Adriano Moraes do battle for the vacant ONE flyweight MMA world title.

The pair went toe-to-toe at ONE X, with the Brazilian veteran splendidly defending his 26 ponds of gold with a third-round submission.

While many see this rematch going in favor of 'Mikinho,' Wakamatsu is ready to thrill his home crowd and secure his throne atop the stacked division.

Follow this link for the pre-sale registration to ONE 172. Tickets for this gem will go on sale in Japan on December 20 and globally on January 11.