ONE Championship made its grand return to Japan on March 23, 2025, with one of the biggest martial arts events in the nation’s history, ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang, held at the iconic Saitama Super Arena. This high-stakes occasion included four World Title fights, exciting clashes between Japan’s top athletes, and elite international competitors.
The event was highlighted by a thrilling flyweight kickboxing clash between Japanese superstar Takeru Segawa and Muay Thai powerhouse Rodtang Jitmuangnon. Fans were eagerly anticipating this matchup, but it was Tawanchai PK Saenchai who faced off against Masaaki Noiri for the interim featherweight kickboxing title in the co-main event.
Earlier in the week, Tawanchai had been preemptively studying Noiri, stating during an open workout at ONE 172, “His style is orthodox. He’s trying to fool me into thinking he’s southpaw.” Tawanchai’s assertion captures the essence of the strategic mental game that transpires in the lead-up to such high-stakes matchups.
As the evening progressed, the atmosphere intensified. In the co-main event, Masaaki Noiri, who had been preparing for this championship fight, finally got his moment. Facing off against Tawanchai, he fought fiercely to claim victory via TKO at 1:55 of the third round, earning the coveted ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Title.
Noiri's triumph was not just a personal victory; it was also an emotional moment as he celebrated with his family in the ring. Following his win, he expressed gratitude and excitement about the future, sharing emotional moments with his wife and kids. “I really appreciate that ONE has given me opportunities to fight,” Noiri remarked. “I feel like I’m finally understanding how to fight here.”
In addition to his title victory, Noiri also earned a $50,000 bonus for his performance, which added to the jubilation of the evening. Segawa’s corner was occupied by Noiri, who had much to think about as his victory now set the stage for potential unification matches in the future. He knew that if he secured the interim title, a match against the current champion, Superbon, was on the horizon.
Pushing into the main event, the energy was palpable as fans eagerly anticipated the match between Rodtang, a seasoned fighter with a wealth of experience, and Takeru. In what turned out to be an electrifying encounter, Rodtang shocked the audience by delivering a stunning knockout via left hook just 1:20 into the first round, leaving no doubt about his prowess in the ring.
Rodtang’s victory not only secured him a place in the spotlight, but he also took home a substantial $50,000 bonus, capping off a memorable night for him and his team. “It’s over!” shouted the event commentators as Rodtang celebrated his swift victory.
The event showcased not only the excitement of championship matchups but also the dedication and preparation each fighter undertook leading up to their bouts. Several fighters, including Yuya Wakamatsu and Moraes, brought their A-games, further enlivening the already thrilling atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Masaaki Noiri, reflecting on the fight after it concluded, shared plans for a potential break to enjoy time with his family, stating, “If I win this fight, I do feel like taking a little break. I just want to take it easy with my family and maybe go on a trip somewhere.” Indeed, the balancing act between personal desires and professional commitments often weighs heavily in the world of competitive sports.
As ONE Championship rolls forward, the momentum gained from events like ONE 172 is sure to elevate the interest in martial arts around the globe. Both Noiri’s triumph over Tawanchai PK Saenchai and Rodtang’s remarkable knockout serve as testaments to the caliber of athletes competing on this prominent platform.
They have inspired aspiring fighters and entertained fans not just in Japan but around the world. As always, the thrill of martial arts remains a powerful draw, and with each event, the stories of struggle, triumph, and connection with family resonate deeply.
With new champions crowned and entertaining battles showcased in ONE 172, the future looks bright for athletes like Masaaki Noiri and Rodtang. As they prepare for what lies ahead, their achievements at Saitama Super Arena stand as a high point in their careers as they move to solidify their legacies in the sport.
As fans eagerly await future showdowns, the legacy of ONE Championship grows ever larger, promising more excitement and unparalleled martial arts action.
