Jackie Buntan’s rise to the top of the kickboxing world is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and the support of her training environment at Boxing Works
With the addition of Takeru Segawa to the gym’s roster, Boxing Works has further solidified its reputation as a breeding ground for champions.
The impact of her journey will be felt for years to come. Together with her teammates and coaches, she is shaping the future of kickboxing, one victory at a time.
Buntan’s victory symbolizes the dawn of a new era in women’s combat sports. As the sport continues to grow, athletes like Jackie Buntan are breaking barriers and setting new standards. Her success is a reminder that with hard work and determination, dreams can become reality.
For fans and aspiring fighters alike, Buntan’s story is one of inspiration—a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
Also Read: Mary Lou Retton’s Daughter Emma Enjoys a Fun Week with Arkansas DB Hudson Clark
Table of Contents
Jackie Buntan: Who Is She?
A Rising Star in Kickboxing
Jackie Buntan, the newly crowned ONE women’s strawweight kickboxing world champion, has taken the martial arts world by storm.1
Representing both the United States and the Philippines, Buntan’s rise to the top has been fueled by relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and a world-class training environment.
Her journey to the pinnacle of the sport has not only showcased her talent but also the exceptional athletes she trains with at Boxing Works in California.
Boxing Works, based in California, has earned a reputation as a premier training facility for elite kickboxers. Under the guidance of seasoned coaches, the gym is home to some of the most formidable fighters in the world, including former atomweight kickboxing queen Janet ‘JT’ Todd.
The competitive atmosphere at Boxing Works has played a crucial role in shaping Buntan into the champion she is today.
Recently, the gym has welcomed a significant addition to its roster, sparking excitement among its athletes and fans.
Enter Takeru Segawa: The “Natural Born Crusher”
Japanese kickboxing icon Takeru Segawa, known as the “Natural Born Crusher,” has made waves in the global kickboxing scene.
Currently ranked No. 2 in ONE Championship’s flyweight kickboxing division, Takeru is celebrated for his explosive style and relentless aggression in the ring.
Over the past year, he has been training extensively at Boxing Works, integrating himself into the gym’s dynamic ecosystem.
Takeru’s presence has undoubtedly elevated the gym’s energy, with athletes and coaches eager to learn from his unique approach. Despite being relatively new to Boxing Works, he has made a lasting impression, particularly through his work with the gym’s male fighters and coach Seth Ramos.
Jackie Buntan: Perspective on Takeru
In a recent interview with Beyond Kick, Jackie Buntan shared her thoughts on Takeru’s impact at Boxing Works.2
She revealed:
“Yeah, Takeru has been coming a lot in the past year and last year. He has been training a lot with my training partner, one of our coaches there, Seth Ramos who has been a great help with me for this camp as well. I haven’t been able to work with Takeru, but I know Takeru has worked with some of the boys we have at the gym.”
While Buntan has yet to train directly with Takeru, his presence has undeniably contributed to the gym’s overall growth. His expertise and work ethic inspire everyone around him, reinforcing the high standards that Boxing Works is known for.
The Role of a Competitive Environment
- Buntan’s success as a ONE world champion can be attributed, in part, to the fiercely competitive environment at Boxing Works.
- Training alongside top-tier athletes like Janet Todd and now Takeru Segawa provides Buntan with constant motivation and an opportunity to refine her skills.
- The gym fosters a culture of excellence, where athletes push each other to new heights. For Buntan, this environment has been instrumental in preparing her for the challenges of the global stage.
- A key figure in both Jackie Buntan’s and Takeru Segawa’s training is coach Seth Ramos. Known for his strategic approach and deep understanding of kickboxing, Ramos has played a pivotal role in honing Buntan’s skills.
- His ability to adapt training regimens to suit individual fighters’ needs has been a game-changer, particularly during Buntan’s recent championship camp.
- Ramos’ collaboration with Takeru has also been noteworthy. By working closely with the Japanese star, Ramos continues to bring fresh perspectives to the gym, benefiting all athletes under his guidance.
Jackie Buntan’s Road to Glory
At just 27 years old, Jackie Buntan has already cemented her legacy in the world of kickboxing.3
Her journey to becoming a ONE world champion has been marked by perseverance, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.
Training at Boxing Works has provided Buntan with the tools she needs to succeed. The gym’s emphasis on technical precision, physical conditioning, and mental toughness has prepared her for the highest levels of competition.
The Future of Boxing Works
With athletes like Jackie Buntan and Takeru Segawa leading the charge, the future of Boxing Works looks incredibly bright. The gym continues to attract top talent from around the world, solidifying its status as a hub for kickboxing excellence.
As Buntan and her teammates strive for greater achievements, the collaborative spirit at Boxing Works remains a driving force. The gym’s success is a testament to the power of teamwork and the impact of a supportive community.
Takeru Segawa’s decision to train at Boxing Works reflects his commitment to evolving as a fighter. His influence extends beyond the gym’s walls, inspiring a new generation of martial artists to pursue excellence.
Known for his dynamic striking and unyielding determination, Takeru continues to be a dominant force in the flyweight division. His collaboration with Boxing Works not only enhances his own skills but also contributes to the growth of his training partners.
Building a Legacy
- For Jackie Buntan, winning the ONE women’s strawweight kickboxing world championship is just the beginning.
- Her dedication to her craft and her ability to thrive in a competitive environment position her as a role model for aspiring fighters.
- With the support of her coaches and training partners, Buntan is poised to achieve even greater milestones in her career.
- Her journey serves as a reminder that success in martial arts requires not only individual talent but also the strength of the team behind you.
- ONE Championship has become a global platform for showcasing the best in martial arts. Fighters like Jackie Buntan and Takeru Segawa exemplify the organization’s commitment to excellence and diversity.
- Through their performances, they inspire fans around the world and contribute to the growing popularity of kickboxing.
- As ONE Championship continues to expand its reach, athletes from all backgrounds have the opportunity to shine on the world stage.
Also Read: How Anatoly Malykhin’s Energy Sets Him Apart in MMA, According to John Hutchinson
Jackie Buntan Triumphs Over Anissa Meksen
A Historic Victory
The electrifying atmosphere at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, reached new heights on November 9, as Jackie Buntan etched her name in history.
The 27-year-old fighter clinched the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over the legendary Anissa Meksen at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Prime Video.
This momentous achievement solidified Buntan’s place among the sport’s elite and marked the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.
A Night to Remember at Lumpinee Stadium
Lumpinee Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in the world of combat sports, served as the perfect backdrop for this historic event.
The arena, steeped in Muay Thai tradition, welcomed fighters and fans from across the globe to witness a stacked card headlined by heavyweight titans Anatoly Malykhin and Oumar Kane, better known as “Reug Reug.” However, it was Buntan’s bout against Meksen that stole the show.
Jackie Buntan’s victory over the seven-time world champion Meksen was no ordinary feat. The French-Algerian fighter, nicknamed “C18,” has been a dominant force in the world of kickboxing and Muay Thai, making Buntan’s triumph all the more impressive.
Jackie Buntan: Career
Buntan’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance, grit, and growth. Born and raised in California, she began her martial arts journey at a young age.
Training under the guidance of her long-time coach, Brian Popejoy, Buntan developed into a well-rounded striker with impeccable technique and a warrior’s heart.
Her rise through the ranks of ONE Championship was marked by a series of stellar performances, including wins against top-tier opponents. Buntan’s ability to adapt and evolve was evident in her bouts, where she showcased a mix of speed, power, and tactical brilliance.
A Masterclass in Strategy
Buntan entered the ring with a clear game plan: neutralize Meksen’s aggression and capitalize on openings. Over five rounds, she executed her strategy with precision.
Utilizing her footwork, counters, and sharp combinations, Buntan kept Meksen at bay while landing effective strikes of her own.
The judges’ unanimous decision reflected Buntan’s dominance throughout the fight. While Meksen showcased her signature pressure and technical prowess, it was Buntan’s ability to outthink and outmaneuver her opponent that secured the victory.
View this post on Instagram
The Significance of the Win
- Buntan’s win represents more than just a championship title; it’s a landmark moment for women’s kickboxing.
- By defeating a fighter of Meksen’s caliber, Buntan has elevated the profile of the sport and inspired a new generation of female athletes.
- Her performance under the bright lights of Lumpinee Stadium demonstrated the depth and talent in women’s combat sports, proving that they deserve equal recognition and opportunities on the global stage.
- Anissa Meksen, known for her explosive power and technical brilliance, has been a dominant figure in combat sports for years. Despite the loss, her legacy remains untarnished.
- Meksen’s willingness to take on tough challengers and her contributions to the sport have paved the way for fighters like Buntan.
- Buntan’s victory over Meksen is a testament to the evolving landscape of kickboxing, where the gap between veterans and rising stars continues to narrow.
Also Read: How Anatoly Malykhin’s Energy Sets Him Apart in MMA, According to John Hutchinson
