Takeru Segawa’s unexpected piano performance serves as a reminder that athletes are more than just competitors; they are multifaceted individuals with diverse talents and interests
His ability to balance the brutal world of combat sports with the elegance of music highlights the depth of his character.
As fans continue to support him, they do so not just for his fighting prowess but also for the unique and unexpected ways he connects with them.
As ONE 172 approaches, the excitement among Japanese combat sports fans continues to build. Takeru and his fellow fighters are not just fighting for personal glory—they are carrying the weight of Japan’s martial arts heritage and future on their shoulders.
If they succeed in making a significant impact, this event could be remembered as the catalyst for a new golden age of Japanese combat sports.
Whether through knockouts, strategic victories, or heart-stopping battles, the message is clear: Japan is back, and they are here to take on the world.
Also Read: Takeru Segawa’s Toughest Moment: Why Losing to Superlek Was a Crushing Blow?
Table of Contents
Takeru Segawa: The Hidden Talents of Combat Sports Athletes
Beyond the Ring: The Multifaceted Life of Fighters
Combat sports athletes are often perceived solely as warriors inside the ring or cage, but their lives outside of competition are just as fascinating.1
Many fighters have hobbies and talents that go unnoticed by the general public. Recently, Japanese kickboxing megastar Takeru Segawa shocked fans with an unexpected talent: playing the piano.
While preparing for his highly anticipated showdown at ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang, Takeru found a unique way to pass the time.
Dressed in nothing but his ring gear, the kickboxing sensation sat at a grand piano in his hotel and began playing a short melody, much to the delight of onlookers.
The scene, captured and shared on Instagram by ONE Championship, showcased a different side of the feared striker, leaving fans in awe of his musical abilities.
— 武尊 takeru (@takerusegawa) March 20, 2025
The Natural Born Krusher: A Fierce Competitor with a Soft Side
Despite his calm and collected demeanor while playing the piano, Takeru is a completely different animal when he steps inside the circle.
Known as ‘The Natural Born Krusher,’ he boasts an impressive 44-win career.
His most recent fight under the ONE Championship banner saw him deliver a thrilling come-from-behind knockout against Thant Zin, solidifying his place as one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport.
Takeru’s next challenge is nothing short of monumental. He is set to face former ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon in a flyweight kickboxing bout in the main event of ONE 172.
The event, scheduled for Sunday, March 23, at the iconic Saitama Super Arena in Japan, promises to be a must-watch showdown between two of the most elite strikers in combat sports.
Takeru Segawa: Benefits of Music and Other Hobbies
Engaging in hobbies like playing an instrument offers numerous mental and emotional benefits.2
For a fighter like Takeru, music could serve as a form of relaxation and mental clarity, helping him stay focused and composed ahead of high-stakes fights.
Scientific studies have shown that playing an instrument can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and even improve hand-eye coordination—all valuable attributes for a high-level striker.
The Surprising Hobbies of Combat Sports Athletes
Takeru’s piano skills have reignited discussions about the hidden talents of combat sports athletes. Fighters often have interests outside of their sport that help them relax, express themselves creatively, or develop new skills.
From singing and playing instruments to painting and gaming, many combat athletes engage in activities that break the stereotype of them being solely aggressive competitors.
The Future of Takeru Segawa
Regardless of the outcome at ONE 172, Takeru’s star power continues to rise. His ability to entertain fans both as a fighter and as an individual with unique talents adds another layer to his already impressive career.
As he continues to push boundaries in kickboxing, fans will no doubt be watching closely, whether he’s throwing punches in the ring or playing melodies on a grand piano.
For those eager to witness this highly anticipated showdown, ONE 172 will be available live on pay-per-view at watch.onefc.com.
With Takeru and Rodtang set to deliver fireworks, this is a fight that no combat sports fan will want to miss.
Takeru Segawa: Fans React to his Piano Skills
The reaction from fans to Takeru’s piano performance was overwhelmingly positive.3
Many took to social media to express their amazement at seeing the fearsome fighter exhibit such a refined skill.
Some praised his versatility, while others drew comparisons to other athletes known for surprising talents outside of their respective sports.
Other Fighters with Unique Skills
Takeru isn’t the only combat sports athlete with surprising talents.
Over the years, several fighters have revealed hobbies and skills that contrast sharply with their in-ring personas:
- Anderson Silva – The former UFC middleweight champion is known for his love of dancing and has even showcased his samba moves on numerous occasions.
- Rose Namajunas – The former UFC strawweight champion plays the piano and has spoken about how music helps her mentally prepare for fights.
- Ryan Bader – The Bellator heavyweight champion is an accomplished fisherman, often sharing his catches with fans on social media.
- Max Holloway – The former UFC featherweight champion is a dedicated gamer, streaming his gameplay on Twitch and connecting with fans outside the fight world.
The Cultural Significance of Combat Sports in Japan
Takeru’s upcoming fight at the Saitama Super Arena holds deep significance for Japanese combat sports fans.
Japan has a rich history in kickboxing, karate, and other martial arts, making this event a homecoming of sorts for the star.
His ability to connect with fans through both his fighting skills and his offbeat interests, like music, makes him a unique and beloved figure in the sport.
As fight night approaches, anticipation continues to build for the clash between Takeru and Rodtang. Both fighters are known for their relentless striking and iron wills, making this bout one of the most exciting matchups in recent memory.
Fans are eager to see whether Takeru’s diverse skill set—both in and out of the ring—will give him the edge against the legendary Muay Thai champion.
Also Read: Jackie Buntan Reveals Why Takeru Segawa is Finding His New Home at Boxing Works
Takeru Segawa: Massive Opportunity for Japanese Combat Sports Athletes
A Historic Moment for Japanese Martial Arts
ONE 172 is shaping up to be a landmark event for Japanese combat sports, featuring 12 elite fighters from Japan competing on the grand stage.
Among them, Takeru Segawa, a former three-division K-1 kickboxing champion, sees this event as more than just another competition—it is a defining moment for the resurgence of Japanese martial arts.
With the world watching, Takeru believes this is a golden opportunity to restore Japan’s status as a dominant force in combat sports.
Takeru’s Vision for Japan’s Combat Sports Resurgence
Takeru has long been a symbol of Japanese fighting spirit. As he prepares to step into the ONE Championship ring, he carries the hopes of his nation on his shoulders.
During the open workout for ONE 172, he passionately stated:
“I believe this event will be the first step in Japanese combat sports becoming the center of the world again. I want to showcase Japan’s strength globally with all Japanese fighters winning in the best possible way. Please support all of us representing Japan.”
His words echo a sentiment shared by many within Japan’s combat sports community—this is their moment to reclaim global recognition and inspire the next generation of fighters.
Japan’s Rich Legacy in Martial Arts
Japan has long been a powerhouse in martial arts, having produced legendary fighters in disciplines such as karate, judo, kickboxing, and MMA.
The country has given birth to organizations like PRIDE FC, K-1, and Shooto, which have significantly influenced the combat sports landscape.
However, in recent years, the dominance of Japanese fighters on the international stage has waned. Takeru and his fellow competitors at ONE 172 aim to change that narrative by putting on electrifying performances.
The Challenge of Competing on a Global Stage
Competing in ONE Championship presents a unique challenge for Japanese fighters. Unlike domestic promotions, ONE features world-class athletes from various countries, each with distinct fighting styles and training methodologies.
Takeru acknowledges that stepping into the ONE ring means facing fierce competition, but he sees this as a valuable test that will only strengthen Japanese fighters.
ONE Championship also enforces different rules compared to traditional Japanese kickboxing. Fighters must adapt to these regulations, including the use of 4-ounce MMA gloves in kickboxing bouts, which increases the potential for knockouts.
Despite these adjustments, Takeru remains confident in his ability to shine under the bright lights of ONE 172.
Takeru Segawa: Training and Preparation for ONE 172
To prepare for this monumental event, Takeru has been training rigorously with a team of elite coaches and sparring partners.
His camp has focused on enhancing his striking power, refining his defensive techniques, and improving his endurance. Takeru understands that his performance at ONE 172 will set the tone for Japan’s resurgence in combat sports.
His training regimen includes:
- Intensive striking drills: Perfecting combinations to maximize efficiency and power.
- Sparring sessions with diverse opponents: Facing different styles to develop adaptability.
- Strength and conditioning: Building explosive power and stamina for high-paced fights.
- Mental preparation: Strengthening his mindset to handle the pressure of a global stage.
The Rising Generation of Japanese Fighters
Beyond his own performance, Takeru is excited about the new wave of Japanese fighters competing at ONE 172.
This new generation is hungry to prove themselves, and they have been honing their skills in top-tier gyms across Japan.
Fighters such as Kaito Ono, Taiki Naito, and Shinya Aoki are among those representing Japan, and their success will further reinforce the nation’s growing influence in combat sports.
Takeru believes that the collective success of these fighters will inspire more young athletes to pursue careers in martial arts, ensuring Japan’s fighting legacy continues to flourish.
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The Global Audience and Its Impact
ONE Championship has a vast global audience, and ONE 172 will be broadcast to millions of fans worldwide.
This exposure is crucial for Japanese fighters, as it allows them to showcase their skills to a broader audience and attract international recognition.
A dominant showing by Japanese athletes at ONE 172 could lead to greater opportunities, such as:
- Increased sponsorships and endorsements.
- More international fight offers and cross-promotional bouts.
- The revival of major martial arts events in Japan.
- A renewed interest in Japanese combat sports from younger generations.
The Significance of ONE 172 for Japan’s Martial Arts Future
Takeru sees ONE 172 as more than just another fight card—it is a turning point for Japan’s combat sports industry.
The event represents an opportunity to reignite national pride and demonstrate that Japan still produces world-class fighters.
“We want to show the world that Japanese fighters are strong, skilled, and ready to compete with the best. ONE 172 is our chance to prove that.”
His determination is clear, and he is fully committed to making a statement with his performance.
Also Read: Takeru Segawa Bio, Age, Career, Net Worth And More
