Takeru Segawa has vowed to return to action as a stronger and better fighter, and he is indeed putting in the work. The Japanese kickboxer is all set to make a return at ONE Friday Fights 81 on September 27 at the historic Lumpinee Stadium. Takeru has been putting in the work in the United States and is ready for the challenge of Black Panther. 

He even shared a video for his fans with a caption that read, “Can’t wait to win. Even after coming to America, I spend every day thinking about it. 27 September, sure win.” His impressive leg kicks and his speed during the training session have impressed many, including ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong. Let us take a look at what the ONE patriarch had to say about the Japanese fighter. 

Takeru Segawa’s latest training video gets attention from Chatri Sityodtong

Although Takeru’s home gym is at Vasileus Gym in Tokyo, he has been open to sharpening his skills elsewhere. Recently, he went to California to train at Boxing Works as part of his preparations to return. Despite being a veteran of the sport, the Japanese fighter is one of the hardest-working athletes in the sport and constantly tries to elevate his game.

He often keeps his fans updated about his training schedules and posts videos of his intense training sessions. This time, his video has caught the attention of ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong. The Thai-Japanese entrepreneur seemed highly impressed with “The Natural Born Crusher’s” leg kicks and the speed with which they were being delivered.

He commented, “Lightning speed and explosive power!!! ” Takeru previously mentioned that his training camps are never easy, but he knows it will be worth it in the end. As the Japanese star prepares for his second fight under the banner of ONE Championship, he is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation.

The 33-year-old is desperate for his first victory and recently shared a video of him sparring with ISKA world champion Takumi Terada. He wrote, “Last one before America with Takumi @takumiterada_.”  What followed was an intense sparring session, which caught the attention of many. 

Takeru impressed everyone with his debut performance but failed to end up on the winning side. However, this time he looks determined to win his clash against Black Panther. Let us take a closer look at the upcoming clash on September 27. 

Takeru Segawa is desperate to announce his arrival at the ONE Championship

‘The Natural Born Crusher’ truly lived up to his hype when he took on Superlek in his debut. Known for his elite striking skills, Takeru seemed to be a man on a mission. In a five-round fight at ONE 165, the Japanese superstar was overmatched by “The Kicking Machine” early on as he absorbed damage to his leg. However, he impressed fight fans across the globe with a valiant comeback effort late in the fight, but it was not enough to sway the judges in his favor. His performance proved that he is a positive addition to the planet’s best striking roster, and he is looking to avenge just the fourth loss of his stellar career. 

Standing in his way is 24-year-old Thai fighter Black Panther. He made his ONE debut in 2023 but went on to lose his battle against Tagir Khalilov. However, he has turned his fortunes around and is currently undefeated in his last three fights. His latest victory came against the previously undefeated Ali Saldoev via a knockout at ONE Fight Night 23 last month. The 24-year-old has proved to everyone that he is here to stay in the division and is ready to take on anyone. But can he keep his winning momentum going when he takes on Takeru Segawa next? 

The fight card also features some more exciting fights, which include former ONE World Champions Hiroki Akimoto and Ilias Ennahachi squaring off against each other in a bantamweight kickboxing clash. Headlining the event will be ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon, taking on “Smokin’” Jo Nattawut in a featherweight Muay Thai clash.

Do you think Takeru will get his first win, or will Black Panther spoil the party for the Japanese superstar? Let us know in the comments below.