“The real battle is coming back” - Japanese kickboxing legend Takeru says he’s getting closer to peak shape after horrific injury

Takeru Segawa could be back in the ring or the cage in no time at all.

The Japanese kickboxing legend had a bittersweet ONE Championship debut when he lost to Superlek Kiatmoo9 in his challenge for the ONE flyweight kickboxing world title at ONE 165.

Although he elevated his already legendary career to another level, Takeru's left leg was torn to shreds after Superlek's constant punishment in the five-round fight.

Takeru, however, has been making strides in his recovery and is already pushing himself in training.

In an Instagram post, the former three-division K-1 champion showed his work at Vasileus Gym in Japan.

"Little by little, the real battle is coming back 🔥 I'm starting to be a bit more flexible @takumimi_1," wrote Takeru.

Takeru was shown sparring with K-1 star Takumi Terada at their team's facility.

It's unclear when 'The Natural Born Crusher' will return to action, but fans are already hoping that he and Thai megastar Rodtang Jitmuangnon will finally meet inside the Circle.

The ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion was Takeru's initial debut opponent in ONE Championship, but 'The Iron Man' injured his left hand ahead of ONE 165.

With Rodtang out of the fight, Superlek took up the responsibility of facing Takeru and even put his flyweight kickboxing throne on the line against the debuting legend.

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Takeru recalls training with Thai legend Nong-O Hama

Before he suited up the gloves for his ONE Championship debut, Takeru was already sharing the gym with some of the promotion's biggest stars.

Takeru was in attendance during the Muay Thai mega fight between Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Superlek Kiatmoo9 in September 2023.

Since the fight was held at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Takeru took it upon himself to train with Thai superstars Superbon and Nong-O Hama at Superbon Training Camp.

Takeru told ONE Championship in an interview how he felt training alongside Nong-O and what separated the former ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion from the field.

"I felt the tremendous power and length in his kicks. He has great distance management. An extremely high-level technical fighter," said Takeru.