ONE Championship: The long-awaited fight between Takeru and Rodtang is already set, says the CEO

When Takeru Segawa first signed with ONE Championship in early 2023, everyone assumed he would face Rodtang Jitmuangnon first. It was the fight the organization wanted to see, but more than a year later, fans are still waiting to see the two face off.

The fight was scheduled for ONE 165 in January, but Rodtang pulled out due to an arm injury. He was replaced by Superlek Kiatmoo9, who convincingly defeated Takeru in Tokyo. The Japanese fighter has not competed since.

Takeru is scheduled to fight Thant Zin this week at ONE Friday Fights 81, while Rodtang will face Jacob Smith at ONE 169 in November.

Takeru was a kickboxing star in K-1, while Rodtang is a Muay Thai veteran. The fight, which will almost certainly take place under the old rules, pits two stars from different sports against each other and has been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation.

With their schedules so closely aligned, ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong was asked if the two might finally meet.