Where Should Rodtang Fight After ONE Samurai vs. Takeru?

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Introduction

On April 29, 2026, at ONE SAMURAI 1, Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon will rematch Takeru Segawa for the interim flyweight kickboxing world title. Their first encounter in 2025 was a lightning‑quick 80‑second knockout win for Rodtang. Takeru then notched a TKO victory over Denis Puric to earn this rematch and announced it would be his farewell fight. Rodtang says he is honored Takeru chose him, but he vows to spoil his opponent’s farewell. Once this historic bout concludes, the question arises: Where should Rodtang fight next?

This article delves into Rodtang’s career, his standing in ONE Championship and global striking, and potential paths following his bout with Takeru. We’ll also share how you can learn from his style at our gym through classes and YouTube tutorials.

Rodtang’s Rise and Current Status

Rodtang has become one of the most celebrated Muay Thai fighters of his generation. Known for his iron chin, relentless pressure and explosive power, he has captured multiple world titles in ONE Championship and holds victories over top contenders. Rodtang’s ability to adapt to different rulesets—from Muay Thai to kickboxing—has broadened his appeal. With his global popularity, his career decisions impact both the sport and its fan base.

Key Achievements

• ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion: Rodtang captured and defended the title several times, defeating elite opponents like Jonathan Haggerty.

• Crossover Fights: He fought Demetrious Johnson in a special Muay Thai/MMA hybrid bout, showcasing his willingness to push boundaries.

• First Takeru Bout: An 80‑second knockout over a K‑1 legend, cementing his reputation.

Analysis of the Takeru Rematch

This rematch is symbolic. Takeru is a three‑division K‑1 champion, one of Japan’s most revered strikers, and this fight is his final chapter. Rodtang views the fight as an honor; he stated it’s the most important fight not because of the interim belt but because Takeru chose him for his farewell. However, for Rodtang, the interim belt also sets up a unification bout with the reigning champion. Regardless of the outcome, Rodtang’s future is bright—but where should he go?

Option 1: Unify the ONE Flyweight Kickboxing Title

If Rodtang wins, he will hold the interim flyweight kickboxing belt, making a unification bout with the reigning champion the logical next step. Unification fights generate hype and clarity. Rodtang has dominated the Muay Thai division; adding a full kickboxing title would further cement his legacy.

Pros:

• Legacy: Holding undisputed titles in both Muay Thai and kickboxing enhances his status as a pound‑for‑pound great.

• Familiar Platform: ONE Championship invests heavily in promoting Rodtang. He enjoys lucrative contracts and global exposure.

• Fan Interest: Unification matches have inherent stakes that draw audiences.

Cons:

• Risk of Stagnation: Staying within ONE Championship might limit cross‑promotion opportunities.

• Weight Management: Maintaining the flyweight limit can be challenging as he ages.

Option 2: Cross‑Promotion with K‑1 or RISE

A third match with a Japanese legend or a new challenge in a different organisation could broaden his appeal. After Takeru’s retirement, Japanese promotions will look for star matchups to fill the void. Rodtang could face champions like Taiju Shiratori (RISE) or Masaki Noiri (K‑1).

Pros:

• Fresh Challenges: Facing different styles and scoring criteria challenges him and entertains fans.

• Market Expansion: Fighting in Japan increases his international fame and potential endorsements.

Cons:

• Contractual Barriers: ONE Championship may restrict cross‑promotion or require revenue sharing.

• Rule Adjustments: K‑1 and RISE scoring emphasise aggression differently, and the three‑round format may limit his late‑round cardio edge.

Option 3: Return to Full‑Rules Muay Thai in Thailand

Rodtang could shift his focus back to traditional Muay Thai at Thailand’s iconic venues like Rajadamnern or Lumpinee Stadium. Fighting Thais like Petchdam or Panpayak could rekindle domestic rivalries.

Pros:

• Cultural Legacy: Winning titles at home cements his place in Thai Muay Thai history.

• Stylistic Comfort: Full‑rules Muay Thai allows elbows and longer clinching, where Rodtang excels.

Cons:

• Lower International Exposure: Thai stadium fights do not reach as global an audience as ONE events.

• Financial Considerations: Purses may be lower than ONE Championship pay.

Option 4: Pursue Boxing

Some Muay Thai fighters, like Anissa Meksen, have ventured into professional boxing. Rodtang could test the waters in boxing at flyweight or super flyweight.

Pros:

• Skill Development: Boxing sharpens hands and footwork, which could translate back to Muay Thai.

• New Revenue Streams: Boxing’s pay scale can be lucrative with the right fights.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Transitioning requires adjusting stance, defense and strategy.

• Risk of Diluting Focus: Splitting time between sports may affect his dominance in Muay Thai.

Personal and Lifestyle Considerations

Rodtang’s decisions aren’t purely about fights. He must consider:

• Health: Sustaining his aggressive style can take a toll. He may choose less grueling fights or a lighter schedule.

• Family: As he builds wealth and fame, balancing personal life and training becomes important.

• Legacy: Does he want to be remembered as the greatest Muay Thai fighter within ONE or across organisations? Does he value titles or historical significance?

Our Recommendation

Unify the Title in ONE Championship, then explore cross‑promotion. Unifying the kickboxing belt would cement Rodtang’s status as the undisputed champion. Afterwards, a cross‑promotion bout against a top Japanese or international striker could elevate his legacy further and satisfy fans’ curiosity about inter‑organisation matchups. Returning home for high‑profile stadium fights could be an end‑of‑career choice when he’s ready to reconnect with his roots.

Learning from Rodtang’s Style

What makes Rodtang extraordinary isn’t just his power—it’s his mindset. He respects opponents (he calls Takeru’s choice “an honor”) but remains fiercely competitive. He refuses to back down or run. At MTKG, we teach the mental toughness and technical discipline that fighters like Rodtang display. Our classes cover pressure fighting, defensive shelling and proper mechanics to deliver power without sacrificing defense.

Techniques to Study

• Forward Pressure and Cutting the Ring: Rodtang constantly forces opponents to retreat. Drills focusing on ring control and footwork simulate this tactic.

• Elbow and Clinch Defense: While not used in kickboxing, his Muay Thai fights show effective clinch entries and elbow counters.

• Body Shots: Many of Rodtang’s finishes come from ruthless body punches. Learning how to set up and deliver liver shots is an art.

Call‑to‑Action

Inspired by Rodtang’s heart and skill? Train with us. Sign up for a free class at MTKG and learn pressure fighting techniques from our experienced coaches. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for breakdowns of Rodtang’s best fights and drills to help you replicate his style.

Conclusion

Rodtang’s upcoming bout with Takeru will be one for the ages. Regardless of the outcome, his legacy as a fearless striker is secure. Looking ahead, unifying the kickboxing title and pursuing select cross‑promotion bouts will maximise his legacy and earnings. As fans, we should savor his fights and apply lessons from his journey to our own training.

Ready to start your own journey? Join MTKG today. We’ll help you develop the skills, conditioning and mindset of champions like Rodtang.