In a stunning turn of events at the Saitama Super Arena on March 23, 2025, Takeru Segawa, a former K-1 three-division champion, faced a shocking first-round knockout loss to Rodtang Jitmuangnon in a highly anticipated kickboxing match. This decisive loss now leaves Takeru's professional record at 44 wins and 5 losses, a significant change for the seasoned fighter.
The fight was billed as an epic showdown between two fighters with impressive backgrounds. Takeru, aged 33, and Rodtang, 27, entered the ring with high expectations from fans. The match began with both fighters engaging in a low-kick exchange, attempting to find their rhythm. However, just over a minute into the first round, Rodtang quickly switched gears, closing the distance and unleashing a devastating left hook. Takeru appeared to be caught off-guard, staggered, and stumbled back into the ropes before eventually collapsing to the canvas. The referee stepped in, halting the match at 1 minute and 20 seconds, and Takeru struggled to regain his footing as the count progressed.
Following the match, Rodtang expressed his surprise at the outcome. “I am happy to have won and knocked Takeru down,” he stated, sounding both proud and slightly relieved. It was a remarkable victory for Rodtang, especially considering he had been nursing an injury to his left fist for two years prior to the match. Reflecting on his struggle, he admitted, “I didn’t have much confidence because my left fist had been hurting, but I'm glad to have landed the knockout punch.” Rodtang also took a moment to convey his gratitude towards the Japanese fans: “I am grateful to the fans in Japan. I love Japan.”
This match not only defined the evening but also carried significant ramifications for both fighters' careers. Takeru had signed with ONE Championship in April 2023, motivated to face Rodtang, who is revered as the 'Legend of Muay Thai.' Their fight was initially scheduled for January 2024 but was postponed due to Rodtang’s injury, which added to the anticipation surrounding this bout. Takeru's climb through the ranks involved a previous challenge for the ONE Flyweight title against Superlek, where he lost by decision.
Rodtang's emphatic win leads to speculation about his future as well. Following the fight, Chatri Sityodtong, the CEO of ONE Championship, shared his thoughts about the possibility of a rematch. “I always thought this fight wouldn’t end in one round,” he remarked, indicating he still sees potential in a continued rivalry between the two fighters. Chatri suggested first that Rodtang should face Jonathan Haggerty, the reigning kickboxing champion in this weight class. However, he expressed confidence that there will be another matchup between Takeru and Rodtang in the future, indicating strong support for both fighters despite the defeat Takeru suffered.
For Takeru, the loss marks a tough hurdle, particularly as it’s his first KO loss in nearly thirteen years, having last experienced such a defeat in June 2012 against Yasuhiro Kido. Since then, Takeru has built a reputation in the fighting world, first through his achievements in K-1 before moving on to ONE, seeking new challenges and opportunities.
As the dust settles from ONE 172, fans and analysts alike will keenly watch how Takeru will rebound from this defeat. Will he take the lessons learned from this match to elevate his performance moving forward? Can he rebuild and return to claim his place among the top contenders? Meanwhile, Rodtang's victory solidifies his position as a formidable figure in the kickboxing landscape, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure and maintain his status as a ranking fighter in the ONE Championship.
The future looks promising for Rodtang as he sets his sights on regaining championship status, while Takeru must strategize his next steps in hopes of returning to winning ways. With whispers of a potential rematch lingering in the air, fans of the sport remain eager and ready for the next chapter in this unfolding story.
