WATCH: Highlights of Takeru Segawa’s epic finish of Denis Puric at ONE 173 in Tokyo

Takeru Segawa’s (R) epic finish of Denis Puric | Photo by ONE Championship
Takeru Segawa (right) vs. Denis Puric [Image courtesy: ONE Championship]

Japan’s pride Takeru Segawa rose like a phoenix and put on a vintage performance in his redemption fight at ONE 173 last November.

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With his back against the wall after recent setbacks, ‘Natural Born Krusher’ returned to form and vanquished the ultra-tough Denis Puric in the star-studded card at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Takeru was a man possessed as soon as the bell rang, charging towards ‘The Bosnian Menace’ and putting his usually aggressive foe on the defensive.

The 34-year-old unleashed a plethora of mesmerizing striking techniques, from his signature calf kicks to his devilish punch combinations.

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Puric had no answer for Takeru’s blistering hand speed and was forced to shell up on multiple occasions.

But even with his guard up, Takeru still managed to find holes and tag him clean. The Team Vasileus leader dropped Puric twice in Round 1, but the 40-year-old showed his customary toughness and held on.

However, the writing was on the wall in the ensuing round, where the Japanese superstar scored two more knockdowns to secure that well-earned victory and $50,000 performance bonus from ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.

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Relive Takeru’s emotional victory, here:

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Takeru gearing up for his retirement fight against Rodtang

Takeru is back in the gym preparing for his career swan song.

The Team Vasileus leader is hoping to right one wrong before calling it quits, wishing his last fight to be against his tormentor, Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

'Natural Born Krusher' issued the challenge in his in-ring interview at ONE 173:

"I have something to say. My next fight will be the last fight of my competitive career. And Rodtang, if you're willing to be my dance partner for that last one, let's do it."

Both parties have agreed, and this explosive match-up is expected to be part of the promotion's return to Ariake Arena in 2026.

Follow One Championship News, Schedule & Results at Sportskeeda.

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Edited by Aziel Karthak
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