The stage is set in Tokyo for ONE 173, where Japanese kickboxing superstar Takeru Segawa faces a career-defining moment against the relentless veteran Denis Purić. This isn`t just another fight; it`s a narrative of resilience, redemption, and the raw, unforgiving nature of elite combat sports.
Takeru`s Quest for Image Rehabilitation
For years, Takeru Segawa has been more than just a fighter; he`s been a phenomenon, a genuine ticket-selling icon pivotal to ONE Championship`s ambitions in Japan. His electrifying style and undeniable charisma have drawn legions of fans. However, the last few years have presented a stark reminder that even legends are not immune to the brutal physics of the ring. After a high-profile loss to Thai sensation Rodtang and a subsequent, albeit competitive, defeat to then-champion Superlek Kiatmookao, Takeru`s path took an unexpected turn with a first-round knockdown against the less-seasoned Thant Zin. This series of events has left him, perhaps uncharacteristically, in need of significant “competitive image rehabilitation.”
The human body, even one forged in the crucible of professional fighting, has its limits. With over 40 professional bouts spanning nearly a decade and a half, Takeru`s notorious hard-sparring lifestyle has reportedly taken its toll. Revealing insights from teammate Masaaki Noiri, the interim ONE 70kg kickboxing champion, indicated that Takeru entered the Rodtang fight with both broken ribs and a broken sternum. This stark revelation casts a new light on his recent performances, making it difficult to discern where the impact of relentless training ends and the sheer power of his opponents begins. The question isn`t just about winning, but about how much more his body can endure.
Denis Purić: The Dependable Brawler, Or More?
Stepping into the opposite corner is Denis Purić, a 40-year-old dynamo who transitioned from MMA to become a formidable presence in the kickboxing world, particularly across Chinese and Japanese circuits. Purić is often described as a “dependable brawler,” a moniker that perhaps undersells his tenacity and experience. His resume includes clashes with some of the sport`s elite, including Rodtang and Takeru`s long-time training partner, Koya Urabe.
Much like Takeru, Purić has also faced a challenging run, with losses to Rodtang, Elias Mahmoudi (later overturned to a no-contest), and Jaosuayai Sor.Dechaphan. These are not defeats to be scoffed at; they are against top-tier competition. Yet, in the unforgiving world of fight promotion, such a record can place a fighter in the “perilous territory of becoming the archetypical showcase opponent.” This is the fighter a promoter seeks to provide an entertaining contest, ensuring their star is tested but ultimately victorious. However, to label Purić as merely a stepping stone would be a grave miscalculation. His durability and experience make him a threat capable of spoiling any comeback narrative.
The Stakes: More Than Just a Win
Stylistically, this bout promises an exhilarating, boxing-heavy exchange. Both fighters possess an aggressive, forward-moving style, making a dull moment unlikely. Beyond the entertainment, this fight is a crucible for both men.
- For Takeru, it`s an opportunity to reclaim his dominant narrative, to prove that his body and spirit are still capable of performing at the highest level, and to solidify his irreplaceable role as a Japanese combat sports icon.
- For Purić, it`s a chance to defy the “showcase opponent” label, to leverage his experience against a legendary name, and to catapult himself out of what the article aptly calls a “difficult promotional pigeonhole.”
The answers to critical questions—Takeru`s true physical condition, the longevity of his illustrious career, and who will ultimately carry the torch as Japan`s primary kickboxing attraction—may well begin to unfold in this very ring.
The Rest of the Card: A Feast for Fight Fans
ONE 173 isn`t just about the main event; it`s a stacked card designed to electrify the Ariake Arena. Fans can look forward to a series of high-profile kickboxing matchups:
- Superbon will defend his Featherweight title against Japan`s own Masaaki Noiri in a highly anticipated clash.
- The pound-for-pound elite Yuki Yoza is set to take on the formidable Superlek.
- Thai superstar Stamp Fairtex will step into the ring against Kana.
- And in a grudge match, Hiroki Akimoto will seek revenge against Wei Rui, aiming to overturn a decision loss from last year.
ONE 173 is scheduled to take place on November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
Gareth Fenton 
Ellis Thorne