This year’s ONE 172 promises to be one of the most thrilling events yet, packed with title matches and capped off by a match that fans have eagerly awaited. As ONE Championship makes its return to Japan, the spotlight will be on the super-fight between two titans of the sport: Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon.
### Takeru Segawa Ready to Thrive in Familiar Territory
On March 23, all eyes will be on the Saitama Super Arena, a venue steeped in history and unforgettable fights. For Takeru Segawa, known as “The Natural Born Crusher,” stepping into this arena is like coming home.
“I’ve competed at the Super Arena numerous times during my K-1 days,” Takeru shared with ONE. “Returning there is incredibly exciting for me.”
### Building Toward a Long-Awaited Showdown
Originally scheduled to face Rodtang in 2024, Takeru’s plans were temporarily derailed when the Thai fighter pulled out due to injury, leading to a matchup with Superlek Kiatmoo9 instead. The year-long delay has only intensified Takeru’s anticipation for the showdown he’s been yearning for.
“I just can’t wait to face Rodtang,” Takeru expressed. “This is the fight I’ve been aiming for, and after going through recovery and preparation, my excitement is at its peak as I get ready to meet him in the ring.”
### Eyeing Victory on March 23
Rodtang has built a reputation for his aggressive style. However, Takeru has noticed a shift in Rodtang’s recent performances, where caution and defense have occasionally taken precedence. Despite this, Takeru hopes their clash will see Rodtang embrace his aggressive instincts for an unforgettable fight in Japan.
“He does fight defensively at times, but my style is all about aggression and forward momentum. I plan to impose my style on him and hope he responds in kind,” Takeru explained. “Even if he opts for a defensive approach, I’ve been preparing for that scenario in camp.”
Following a second-round knockout victory over Thant Zin at ONE Friday Fights 81, Takeru feels more at home on the global stage than ever before. As he fine-tunes his strategy, Takeru reflected on the adjustments he believes are key to clinching a monumental win.
“Before my fight with Thant Zin, I switched up my preparation—focusing on both technical skills and physical conditioning. I’m sticking to these changes and feeling great about it. Currently, I’m holding my camp in the U.S., ensuring I push hard in training while taking care of my body,” he noted.
### Energized and Focused on Success
For Takeru, securing a win is crucial, but delivering an electrifying performance against an elite opponent is equally important. With plans to elevate Japanese martial arts, he’s set on making a memorable impact.
“Winning is vital, but I’ve found a renewed passion for the competition,” Takeru said. “That same drive helped me in my last fight, and I’m bringing it with me against Rodtang.”
Catch all the action of ONE 172 on Sunday, March 23, live from the Saitama Super Arena at 3 a.m. ET/midnight PT. Fans can purchase the event on global pay-per-view through watch.onefc.com.
