Rodtang Jitmuangnon knocks out Takeru Segawa in stunning first-round victory: Takeru’s first defeat from a knockdown

In a shocking showdown at ONE Championship 172 on March 23, 2025, Thai Muay Thai legend Rodtang Jitmuangnon delivered a spectacular knockout victory against Takeru Segawa, one of Japan’s most celebrated kickboxing champions. The fight, held at the iconic Saitama Super Arena, lasted just 80 seconds, marking a defining moment in both fighters’ careers and sending shockwaves throughout the combat sports world.

For Takeru, this was more than just a loss—it was the first time in his 13-year professional career that he had been knocked out inside the ring. Meanwhile, Rodtang’s relentless aggression and devastating left hook solidified his reputation as one of the most feared strikers in the sport today. This bout, and its unexpected outcome, has already sparked discussions about legacy, resilience, and the evolving global landscape of kickboxing and Muay Thai.

A Tale of Two Titans: Rodtang vs. Takeru

To fully grasp the magnitude of this clash, it’s essential to understand who these two fighters are and what they represent in the world of combat sports.

Takeru Segawa: Japan’s Kickboxing Icon

Born on July 29, 1991, in Yonago, Japan, Takeru Segawa has been a dominant force in kickboxing for over a decade. He holds the distinction of being the only fighter in K-1 history to win championships in three weight classes: Super Bantamweight, Featherweight, and Super Featherweight. Known for his aggressive style, knockout power, and unwavering spirit, Takeru built a legendary career with a professional record of 42 wins (25 KOs) and only 3 losses heading into the bout with Rodtang.

Before this fight, Takeru had only experienced one technical knockout (TKO) loss due to a nose injury in 2012, when a doctor stopped the fight. Yet, even in that instance, he had never been rendered unconscious or defeated in a manner as decisive as a clean knockout.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon: The Iron Man of Muay Thai

On the other side of the ring stood Rodtang Jitmuangnon, aptly nicknamed “The Iron Man” for his granite chin, relentless forward pressure, and unbreakable will. Hailing from Thailand, Rodtang first made a name for himself as a Muay Thai phenom, winning the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship and defeating top-tier opponents with his ferocious striking.

Rodtang’s reputation extends beyond his technical prowess; he’s celebrated for his willingness to engage in toe-to-toe wars, absorbing punishing blows while delivering devastating counters. This fight against Takeru was seen as a meeting of two unstoppable forces—a classic clash of styles that promised fireworks.

The Fight: 80 Seconds That Shocked the World

When the bell rang at the Saitama Super Arena, the energy in the air was palpable. Fans from Japan and Thailand, as well as viewers tuning in globally, eagerly anticipated what many believed would be a long, competitive battle between two elite strikers. But Rodtang had other plans.

From the opening moments, Rodtang showcased his strategy by targeting Takeru’s legs with powerful low kicks, aiming to disrupt his rhythm and mobility. Takeru attempted to establish distance using his sharp boxing skills, throwing quick jabs and combinations, but Rodtang’s relentless pressure made it difficult for him to settle into a groove.

Then, approximately 80 seconds into the first round, Rodtang unleashed a thunderous left hook that landed flush on Takeru’s chin. The impact was immediate and devastating—Takeru crumpled to the canvas, visibly dazed. The referee stepped in to administer the count, but it was clear that Takeru would not be able to recover in time. The fight was over.

The Aftermath: A Pivotal Moment in Combat Sports

Takeru’s First Knockout Loss

For Takeru Segawa, this loss was a deeply humbling moment. After more than a decade of dominance in the kickboxing world, he had finally been defeated in the most decisive way possible. Fans and analysts were quick to acknowledge the significance of the loss—this wasn’t just any fighter who had knocked out Takeru; it was Rodtang Jitmuangnon, one of the most dangerous strikers on the planet.

While some questioned whether Takeru’s aggressive style had made him vulnerable to Rodtang’s counterpunching, others praised his willingness to take on such a formidable opponent in the first place. In the world of combat sports, where legacies are built on courage as much as victory, Takeru’s reputation remains intact despite the setback.

Rodtang’s Legacy Grows

For Rodtang, this victory was nothing short of career-defining. By knocking out a legend like Takeru Segawa in his home country, Rodtang not only elevated his own legacy but also cemented his status as one of the top pound-for-pound strikers in the world.

This win opens up new possibilities for Rodtang, including potential title fights and superfights against other elite competitors. Whether he chooses to continue competing in Muay Thai, transition more fully into kickboxing, or even explore opportunities in mixed martial arts (MMA), Rodtang’s future looks brighter than ever.

Key Takeaways and What’s Next

For Takeru Segawa

While this loss is undoubtedly a tough pill to swallow, Takeru remains one of the most accomplished kickboxers in history. Many fans and analysts expect him to return stronger, perhaps with a renewed focus on refining his defense and adapting his style to counter aggressive opponents like Rodtang.

At 33 years old, Takeru still has plenty of fight left in him, and a rematch with Rodtang—or a comeback bout against another top contender—could be on the horizon.

For Rodtang Jitmuangnon

Rodtang’s victory over Takeru positions him as one of the most exciting and marketable fighters in combat sports today. With his explosive style, undeniable charisma, and growing fan base, Rodtang is poised to become a global superstar.

Potential future matchups for Rodtang could include:

• A rematch with Takeru Segawa – Given the significance of this first fight, a rematch could draw even more attention.
• A title fight in ONE Championship – Rodtang could challenge for kickboxing titles or return to defend his Muay Thai crown.
• A crossover bout in MMA – With the growing trend of fighters competing in multiple disciplines, Rodtang could explore opportunities in mixed martial arts.

Conclusion: A Night to Remember

The Rodtang vs. Takeru showdown at ONE Championship 172 will go down as one of the most memorable fights in recent history. It was a night that showcased the beauty and brutality of combat sports, reminding fans why they love the sport in the first place.

As both fighters reflect on the outcome and look ahead to the future, one thing is certain: the stories of Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Takeru Segawa are far from over. This is just the beginning of the next chapter in their respective journeys, and fans around the world will be watching closely to see what happens next.