Denis Puric survived 15 minutes trading shots with Rodtang Jitmuangnon while Takeru Segawa lasted just 80 seconds against the same Thai destroyer, creating a mathematical equation the 40-year-old Bosnian-Canadian believes guarantees early knockout victory in Tokyo.

The veteran brawler challenges second-ranked flyweight kickboxing contender Takeru on November 16 at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, where he expects defensive openings and Rodtang rematch obsession will combine into career-defining upset for “The Bosnian Menace.”

Puric’s permanent kickboxing pivot represents calculated survival strategy rather than mere preference change. The heavier gloves, eliminated elbows, and limited clinching provide breathing room that extends his competitive longevity against opponents half his age who dominate traditional Muay Thai competition.

His June three-round war with Rodtang showcased durability that impressed global audiences despite the unanimous decision loss. Subsequent turbulence through a no contest against Elias Mahmoudi and stoppage defeat to Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi delivered wake-up calls about recovery needs for 40-year-old bodies still chasing championship dreams.

“I was not considering the fact that I’m 40 years old,” Puric said. “I’m gonna pull it back, recover, focus on the gym, and stop rushing into fights.”

The Takeru matchup represents exactly the kind of challenge Puric campaigned for through social media months ago. He sees exploitable patterns in the former three-division K-1 Champion’s offensive approach, identifying defensive gaps that sharper counter-punchers can exploit when Takeru prioritizes forward pressure over protective responsibility.

The contrast between their Rodtang performances fuels his confidence despite facing someone considered among kickboxing’s elite. Puric believes Takeru’s obsession with securing Rodtang redemption has created tunnel vision that prevents proper focus on the dangerous opponent standing immediately in front of him November 16.

“He’s putting a lot of pressure on himself,” Puric said about Takeru’s Rodtang fixation.

The veteran has spent months studying Takeru’s signature weapons — body toe stabs and calf kicks — while building his camp around countering those attacks through superior boxing combinations and explosive power that he believes overwhelm the Japanese star’s defensive capabilities.

“He’s got no boxing, he can’t box with me,” Puric declared. “I don’t think it’s going to go past the second, for sure.”

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