On March 23, 2025, the highly anticipated ONE 172 event unfolded at the Saitama Super Arena, showcasing a dream match between Masaru Takegami from Japan and Thailand's Rattan Jitmuangnon. The bout ended dramatically, with Rattan delivering a stunning first-round knockout (KO) that left fans and commentators alike in shock.
From the outset, the fight seemed to favor Takegami, who adeptly maintained a distance that kept Rattan's powerful kicks at bay. However, Rattan, known for his striking prowess, managed to close the gap, landing a decisive left hook that sent Takegami to the canvas. After a brief recovery attempt, the referee stepped in to halt the match, resulting in a KO victory for Rattan.
Following the match, Rattan made waves by appearing on the ONE Championship Podcast by April 8, showcasing his impressive physique. Just two weeks after his victory, he surprised fans by revealing a softer, “chubby body,” contrasting sharply with the muscular form he displayed during the fight. This transformation has sparked a flurry of discussions online, with pictures of Rattan's new look circulating widely across social media.
Rattan's journey to this match was not without its challenges. In November 2024, during ONE 169, he faced a significant setback when he failed to defend his ONE flyweight Muay Thai title due to a weight miss, losing the championship despite winning the bout. To prepare for the Takegami fight, Rattan enlisted the help of a nutritionist, adhering to a strict meal plan and rigorous training regimen. He emphasized the importance of maintaining his physical condition, stating, "I passed the weigh-in with a muscular body, ready for the fight."
In stark contrast, Takegami's post-fight situation has been equally dramatic. Just two days after the event, it was revealed by his teammate Nozue that Takegami had entered the match with two fractured ribs, an injury that significantly hampered his performance. Nozue disclosed, "He couldn't even breathe properly, let alone train. He was in a tough spot leading up to the fight."
Despite the loss, Takegami remains determined to bounce back. Over two weeks later, he took to his social media channels to share his ongoing training efforts, stating, "What happened in the fight still weighs on me, but I'm training every day within my limits. I can't predict what will happen next, but I'm focused on moving forward."
Takegami also shared behind-the-scenes footage from the fight, offering fans a glimpse into the emotional aftermath. He expressed his commitment to turning this chapter of his career into a triumphant story, declaring, "I want to make this story have the best happy ending."
The contrasting paths of Rattan and Takegami following their bout have captured the attention of the MMA community. While Rattan enjoys the limelight of his victory, there’s an air of anticipation surrounding Takegami's comeback. Fans are eager to see how both fighters will evolve in the coming months, particularly if a rematch is in the cards.
Rattan's victory at ONE 172 not only solidified his status as a top contender in the flyweight division but also set the stage for potential future clashes. As Takegami focuses on recovery and training, the question remains: will these two talented fighters meet again in the ring, and if so, under what circumstances?
As the MMA scene continues to evolve, both fighters are poised to make significant impacts in their respective journeys. Rattan's recent success has undoubtedly sparked interest in his next moves, while Takegami's resilience and determination to return to form will keep fans watching closely. The ONE Championship landscape is ever-changing, and the rivalry between these two athletes could very well shape the future of the division.
With the anticipation of a potential rematch lingering in the air, fans are left to wonder how the narrative will unfold. Will Rattan continue to dominate, or will Takegami rise from the ashes of defeat to reclaim his place among the elite? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: the world of MMA is never short of drama and excitement.
