“You’ll get exactly what you’re after” - Rodtang promises utmost violence when he meets Takeru in possible 2025 super fight
Thai superstar Rodtang Jitmuangnon cautioned potential next opponent Takeru Segawa to be careful what he wishes for lest he find himself being bitten by it in the end.
'The Iron Man' highlighted this in an Instagram post, which ONE Championship shared following his victory at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Nov. 8 at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok.
Japanese legend Takeru flew to Thailand to witness the Jitmuangnon Gym standout give British fighter Jacob Smith a beatdown in their rematch.
ONE's post had Takeru watching intently Rodtang get ready for his bout, accompanied by a comment made by the Thai warning 'The Natural Born Crusher':
"Keep staring, and you'll get exactly what you're after soon."
The two ended the night with another intense staredown, hyping further their potential showdown planned for next year. The two were initially set to collide in January this year until it was cancelled as the Thai fighter was sidelined by injury.
Meanwhile, at ONE 169, Rodtang dominated Smith once again, steadily tearing him down with ferocious and impactful strikes throughout on his way to the victory by unanimous decision. It was the same outcome that their first fight in May 2022 had.
The full replay of ONE 169 is available on demand to Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.
Rodtang says Takeru a dangerous opponent to overlook
Rodtang Jitmuangnon is confident of handling what Takeru Segawa will be bringing in their possible showdown but admits he is guarding against complacency versus a dangerous opponent.
He shared this in an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, underscoring that while he has the skills which are a perfect foil for the Japanese legend, the latter's punching power should not be overlooked.
Rodtang said:
"I think I can win using Muay Thai skills which I have more than him. He's not to be underestimated, since he has such heavy punches."
The showdown between the two top fighters have been in the works since Takeru joined ONE Championship last year. All indications right now point to the match finally becoming a reality in 2025.