In a stunning turn of events at ONE Samurai 1, Rodtang Jitmuangnon suffered a fifth-round knockout loss to Takeru Segawa, resulting in the Japanese fighter claiming the interim ONE flyweight kickboxing world title. This high-profile matchup, which took place on April 29, 2026, quickly became one of the year’s most anticipated combat sports events.
Rodtang, who has long been a dominant force in the world of Muay Thai, was unable to defend his reputation against the fast and precise strikes of Takeru. The defeat was particularly tough for the former champion, who had built a legacy on his aggressive style and powerful techniques. Following the loss, Rodtang took to social media with a heartfelt apology to his fans, stating: “I’m sorry. I’m deeply upset that this happened. I just want everything to stop.” His emotional message reflected the toll the loss had taken on him personally and professionally.
The fight, which was the main event of the night, showcased the level of skill and determination of both competitors. Takeru’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he stopped Rodtang in the fifth round with a series of well-executed strikes, securing the interim title in front of an electrified crowd. Rodtang’s inability to overcome Takeru’s relentless pace and technical precision left fans in shock, as many had expected the Muay Thai powerhouse to deliver another victory.
Not all was grim for Rodtang after the fight, however. Panipak “Tennis” Wongpattanakit, a retired Thai taekwondo champion, offered words of encouragement, posting a message on social media that read: “Fight again. Get some rest, recover, then come back and go again. I’ll always be cheering for you.” Her support echoed the sentiments of many fans who remained loyal to Rodtang despite the setback.
In the aftermath of the bout, ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong gave a passionate post-fight interview, emphasizing the importance of discipline and humility in a fighter’s journey. While he did not mention Rodtang by name, his comments about fighters who let fame and wealth affect their development were widely seen as directed toward the Thai fighter’s unexpected loss. Sityodtong’s words underscored the challenges of staying at the top in a sport that demands constant growth and sacrifice.
Rodtang’s knockout loss to Takeru Segawa has ignited significant debate in the combat sports community, with many discussing the potential factors behind the defeat and the lessons that can be learned from this high-stakes battle.
