“There’s Nothing To Be Scared Of” – Superlek Relishing Opportunity To Beat Takeru In Japan At ONE 165

ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek Kiatmoo9 had a monumental 2023. It was a year that saw him capture the prestigious ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title, defend it, and win the biggest super-fight in Muay Thai history against Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

Just twenty-some-odd days into 2024, "The Kicking Machine's" legendary career takes him into enemy territory in Tokyo, Japan. He'll defend his World Title on three week's notice against promotional newcomer and Japanese kickboxing icon Takeru Segawa at ONE 165 on Sunday, 28 January.

Having achieved so much in his native country of Thailand last year, the opportunity to fight elsewhere presents new challenges for Superlek. The Thai smasher knows the difficulties Takeru presents on home turf. But Superlek knows the value of a win in "The Land of the Rising Sun."

"If I beat him in Japan, it's going to be awesome. But to fight in Japan is not easy. Beating him is even less easy," Superlek said.

When Takeru inked his deal with ONE Championship, the first name on his hit-list was Rodtang. He was scheduled to meet "The Iron Man" in Tokyo until Rodtang withdrew due to an injury.

The superfight was put on hold. But as luck would have it, Superlek was gearing up for ONE Fight Night 18 when an injury to his scheduled opponent in Elias Mahmoudi scrapped his plans. So, it made all the sense in the world to pair Superlek and Takeru.

Arguably, with "The Kicking Machine's" ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title up for grabs, a better fight has prevailed. Superlek is well aware of what's made "The Natural Born Crusher" so destructive. And while he has all the respect for the Japanese megastar, Superlek senses that he has nothing to fear.

"[Takeru] and I have different styles. I'm slower but I have heavy weapons to save me," he said.

"My stronger points would be my more powerful kicks. My kicks are powerful and can be effective against anyone. So, I could kick his legs to stop him from moving or slow him down.

"For Takeru, I'm not intimidated by him. There are things I just need to be careful of. There's nothing to be scared of because I don't get scared in the ring."