The upcoming ONE 172 main event is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling kickboxing clashes in recent memory. Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon and Takeru “The Natural Born Crusher” Segawa will square off in a flyweight kickboxing showdown that has fans buzzing with anticipation.

This matchup is significant not only because of the fighters’ reputations but also because of the clash in styles. Rodtang is a battle-hardened Muay Thai legend known for his durability and aggressive pressure, while Takeru brings elite kickboxing credentials, lightning-fast hands, and a diverse striking arsenal.

With both competitors at the peak of their careers, this bout promises fireworks from start to finish. But what will be the decisive factors in determining the winner? Let’s break down the four key elements that could shape the outcome of this high-stakes fight.

1. Takeru’s Lightning-Fast Boxing Combinations and Knockout Power

Takeru Segawa is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic strikers in modern kickboxing. As a former three-division K-1 Champion and ISKA Kickboxing World Champion, he has proven his ability to dominate multiple weight classes. His fast hands, precision, and ability to chain together devastating boxing combinations make him a nightmare for any opponent.

How Takeru’s Hands Can Win the Fight

• Volume Striking: Takeru is known for his ability to throw rapid 4-5 punch combinations. These bursts of offense often leave opponents overwhelmed.

• Speed Advantage: Compared to Rodtang, Takeru likely has a noticeable speed edge in hand movement, allowing him to land strikes before Rodtang can counter.

• Knockout Threat: With 15 career knockouts, Takeru has demonstrated his ability to end fights abruptly. If he finds an opening, he has the power to put Rodtang down.

Takeru’s debut fight in ONE Championship against Superlek Kiatmoo9 showcased his explosive offense. In multiple exchanges, he pressured Superlek into defensive positions and nearly finished the fight. This strategy could be key against Rodtang, whose aggressive style may open up counterattacking opportunities for Takeru.

2. Rodtang’s Legendary Durability and Relentless Pressure

If there’s one word to describe Rodtang Jitmuangnon, it’s unstoppable. The former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion has built a reputation as one of the toughest fighters in combat sports. His ability to walk through damage and apply constant pressure has broken many high-level opponents.

Why Rodtang’s Durability Could Be the Difference

• “Iron Chin” Reputation: Rodtang has never been knocked out in his professional Muay Thai or kickboxing career. Even against power punchers, he absorbs shots and continues moving forward.

• Elite Conditioning: His cardio is second to none. Even in five-round wars, Rodtang maintains a relentless pace.

• Mental Toughness: His fighting spirit makes him almost impossible to intimidate. Even when facing adversity, he never backs down.

Rodtang’s success in this fight will depend on whether he can withstand Takeru’s early barrage and drag the fight into deep waters, where his pressure and durability could overwhelm his opponent.

3. Takeru’s Devastating Left Kick: A Versatile Weapon

While much of the focus is on Takeru’s boxing, his left kick is just as dangerous. Coming from a karate background, he has developed a highly adaptable kicking game that makes him unpredictable.

How Takeru Uses His Left Kick

• Leg Kicks: He can disrupt Rodtang’s forward movement by attacking the lead leg.

• Body Kicks: Takeru’s front kicks and roundhouse kicks to the ribs could sap Rodtang’s energy.

• Head Kicks: His speed and flexibility allow him to land head kicks before opponents can react.

Rodtang has faced many elite kickers before, but Takeru’s combination of speed and precision is unique. If he can consistently land kicks at different levels, he may be able to keep Rodtang guessing and limit his ability to march forward.

4. Rodtang’s Brutal Leg Kicks: The Key to Slowing Takeru Down

Rodtang isn’t just a power puncher—he’s also one of the best leg kickers in the game. His ability to land crushing low kicks has been a crucial factor in his victories over elite strikers.

Rodtang’s Leg Kick Strategy

• Chopping Down Takeru’s Base: In Takeru’s last fight against Superlek, he struggled with defending against persistent leg kicks. Rodtang will likely use the same approach.

• Limiting Movement: By attacking the legs early, Rodtang can slow down Takeru’s footwork, making him an easier target for power punches.

• Accumulated Damage: Even if Takeru absorbs the kicks, the damage will accumulate over the rounds, making it harder for him to maintain his usual mobility.

This could be the most significant tactical advantage for Rodtang. If he successfully lands enough low kicks in the early rounds, it could neutralize Takeru’s speed and make the latter half of the fight much more difficult for the Japanese fighter.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Rodtang vs. Takeru

Category
Rodtang Jitmuangnon
Takeru Segawa

Fighting Style
Muay Thai / Kickboxing
Kickboxing / Karate

Record
270+ wins (multiple KO/TKO)
42-3 (15 KOs)

Strengths
Durability, pressure, power, leg kicks
Speed, boxing, versatility, knockout ability

Weaknesses
Takes damage, sometimes reckless defense
Can struggle against constant pressure, leg kick vulnerability

Key Strategy
Wear opponent down, attack legs, close distance
Maintain distance, use speed, mix boxing and kicks

Expert Predictions: Who Has the Edge?

Combat sports analysts and fighters have mixed opinions on this fight, making it one of the most unpredictable matchups in recent memory.

• Pro-Rodtang Argument: If he can withstand Takeru’s early speed and land significant leg kicks, he could wear down his opponent and dominate the later rounds.

• Pro-Takeru Argument: If Takeru maintains his distance, utilizes his speed advantage, and mixes up his attacks effectively, he could secure a decision victory—or even a knockout if he catches Rodtang off guard.

Many believe the first two rounds will be the most critical. If Takeru can land clean, unanswered shots early, he might take control. However, if Rodtang starts landing low kicks and applying his relentless pressure, the momentum could shift dramatically.

Final Thoughts: A Potential Fight of the Year?

The upcoming battle between Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Takeru Segawa is more than just a clash of two great fighters—it’s a stylistic dream matchup that could go down as one of the greatest kickboxing fights ever.

With Rodtang’s relentless aggression and durability pitted against Takeru’s speed, precision, and knockout power, fans are in for an unforgettable war. Whether it ends in a brutal knockout or a closely contested decision, ONE 172 has all the makings of a historic event.

So, who do you think will emerge victorious? Will Rodtang’s toughness prove too much, or will Takeru’s speed and technical prowess carry the day? One thing is certain—this is a fight no combat sports fan should miss.

Stay tuned for full coverage of ONE 172, including live results, analysis, and post-fight breakdowns!