Takeru Segawa returns to Japanese soil carrying the weight of a devastating defeat and the burning hunger for redemption that only elite fighters truly understand. His collision with Denis Puric at ONE 173 represents far more than simple flyweight kickboxing warfare.

The “Natural Born Krusher” will face “The Bosnian Menace” on Sunday, November 16, inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena with championship implications. For Takeru, this represents the first step on a treacherous road back toward the Rodtang Jitmuangnon rematch that has consumed him since their brutal March encounter.

The former three-division K-1 Champion’s ONE Championship journey reads like a masterclass in humbling reality. His promotional debut against Superlek Kiatmoo9 for the ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title at ONE 165 delivered the kind of technical war that creates legends, but also his first taste of defeat under the brightest lights.

That unanimous decision loss stung, but the educational value proved immense. Takeru rebounded against Myanmar’s Thant Zin, showcasing the explosive finishing ability that built his reputation through 26 career knockouts. His karate background creates devastating kick combinations that push opponents backward before punishing boxing sequences finish the destruction.

But Rodtang had other plans for the Japanese superstar’s redemption narrative in their fight. Their long-awaited collision at ONE 172 lasted just 80 seconds, with “The Iron Man” delivering the kind of first-round knockout that shatters confidence and forces complete strategic reassessment.

Now the 34-year-old destroyer faces a crossroads that will define the remainder of his championship chase. Victory over Puric could restore momentum while positioning him for another crack at Rodtang or even a ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title shot against Superlek. Defeat would further complicate his pursuit of elite status within ONE’s stacked divisions.

Puric represents the perfect spoiler for Takeru’s comeback ambitions. The 40-year-old Bosnian-Canadian veteran proved his credentials during his epic war with Rodtang at ONE 167, pushing “The Iron Man” through three grueling rounds before falling via unanimous decision.

That performance showcased exactly why “The Bosnian Menace” has captured global attention despite facing consistent adversity throughout his promotional tenure. His relentless pressure and ferocious power create problems for any opponent, regardless of reputation or ranking.

The veteran striker understands that defeating Japan’s most celebrated import would represent the biggest victory of his career while potentially launching him toward title contention. His unrelenting fighting style has earned a loyal following that appreciates authentic warfare over manufactured drama.

For Takeru, this homecoming carries emotional weight. The passionate Tokyo crowd will witness whether their hero has learned from his devastating setbacks or if the psychological damage from that Rodtang knockout runs deeper than anticipated.

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