ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang – A Historic Martial Arts Showdown in Japan

Japan has long been a hub for martial arts, and the latest event to grace the iconic Saitama Super Arena, ONE 172, is a testament to that rich history. On March 23, 2025, martial arts fans from around the world tuned in for what was undoubtedly one of the most exciting events in the sport’s recent memory. This particular night was not just another fight card; it was an international spectacle headlined by two of the sport’s biggest stars: Japanese kickboxing legend Takeru Segawa and Muay Thai sensation Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

With ONE Championship at the helm, the event brought together some of the finest talent from across the globe, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation. In addition to the star-studded main event, fans were treated to four electrifying World Title fights, as well as a host of other thrilling matchups in Muay Thai, MMA, and kickboxing. If you’re a fan of high-octane combat sports, ONE 172 did not disappoint.

So, what went down in Saitama? Let’s dive into the results and highlights from this historic night.

The Main Event: Takeru Segawa vs. Rodtang Jitmuangnon

There are few rivalries in the world of combat sports that evoke as much excitement as a showdown between Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon. Each fighter has amassed an impressive career in their respective disciplines, and when the two were scheduled to face off in the ONE 172 main event, fans knew they were in for something truly special.

Takeru Segawa: The Japanese Icon

Takeru Segawa is one of Japan’s most beloved kickboxers. Known for his lightning-fast strikes and precision, Segawa has become a household name in the world of kickboxing. His career is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, with numerous accolades under his belt. Takeru’s undefeated streak heading into this fight made him a formidable opponent for any challenger.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon: The Muay Thai Juggernaut
Rodtang Jitmuangnon, a dominant force in Muay Thai, has built a reputation for his aggressive fighting style and near-impossible endurance. His ability to absorb punishment and dish out even more has earned him the nickname “The Iron Man” in the combat sports world. With an impressive resume of wins in the ONE Championship Muay Thai division, Rodtang’s presence in the ring is always a spectacle.

The Fight: A Clash of Titans

The anticipation surrounding this fight was palpable, and when the bell rang, fans knew they were witnessing something extraordinary. Segawa came out with his trademark speed, looking to land precise, powerful strikes. However, Rodtang’s superior Muay Thai skills allowed him to close the distance quickly, testing Takeru’s defenses with punishing clinch work and powerful elbows.

Round after round, both men delivered a masterclass in their respective arts. Segawa’s technique was flawless, while Rodtang’s raw power and aggression kept him in control. As the fight progressed, it became clear that this was a true battle of styles—kickboxing precision against Muay Thai ferocity.

In the end, the judges’ decision came down to the wire, but only one could claim victory. It was an intense, jaw-dropping contest, and fans everywhere eagerly awaited the final result.

Other Key Fights: World Title Action and More

While the headliner between Takeru and Rodtang stole the show, ONE 172 also featured several other thrilling bouts that had the crowd roaring with excitement. Four World Title fights were on the line, and they did not disappoint.

World Title Fight 1:

This contest pitted two of the sport’s brightest stars against one another in a highly competitive bout. Both fighters brought their A-game, but only one could emerge victorious, capturing the coveted World Title in the process.

World Title Fight 2:

In this electrifying matchup, two seasoned fighters clashed in a battle for supremacy. With an incredible display of grit and heart, the winner walked away with a hard-fought World Title.

World Title Fight 3:

This title fight was a showcase of tactical brilliance. Each fighter seemed to have an answer for the other’s every move, creating a thrilling back-and-forth. Fans were on the edge of their seats, waiting to see who would seize the moment and claim the championship.

World Title Fight 4:

In the final World Title fight of the night, two warriors faced off in a fierce contest that pushed both to their limits. With the title on the line, both competitors fought with everything they had, leaving it all in the ring.

Notable Highlights and Memorable Moments
While the main event and World Title fights stole much of the spotlight, several other moments from ONE 172 were worth noting. From jaw-dropping knockouts to awe-inspiring submissions, this event had it all.

The Knockouts:

There were multiple knockouts throughout the night, each one showcasing the sheer power and precision of the fighters involved. Whether it was a lightning-fast head kick or a crushing punch, these moments left fans in awe.

The Submissions:

In addition to the knockout highlights, ONE 172 also featured some amazing submissions. Fighters displayed incredible technique as they locked in submissions, forcing their opponents to tap out under pressure. These moments demonstrated the versatility and skill of the athletes competing.

The Crowd Energy:

It’s impossible to ignore the electrifying atmosphere in the Saitama Super Arena. The crowd was on fire throughout the event, cheering on their favorite fighters and adding to the intensity of the action. The energy in the arena was palpable, and it only heightened the excitement for those watching at home.

Conclusion

ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang was nothing short of a spectacle. From the moment the first punch was thrown to the final decision, this event had everything a combat sports fan could ask for. The headline bout between Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangnon was a fight for the ages, showcasing the best of both kickboxing and Muay Thai. With four World Title fights, jaw-dropping knockouts, and unforgettable moments, ONE 172 proved that it is more than just an event—it is a celebration of martial arts at its finest.

As ONE Championship continues to grow, it’s clear that they are committed to delivering high-quality, action-packed events that leave fans on the edge of their seats. If you missed ONE 172, don’t worry—replays and highlights are readily available, ensuring that fans can relive the excitement at their leisure.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates on the latest martial arts events and to keep up with all the latest developments in the combat sports world. For a deeper dive into the strategies behind successful sports events, check out our article on “The Secrets of Crafting a Perfect Fight Card”.