‘I Can’t Be Satisfied Yet’ — Nadaka Breaks Down Successful World Title Defense Against Songchainoi At ONE SAMURAI 1

He said:

“I took some hits from his punches, and they really hurt, and there were moments where I felt a bit discouraged. But that’s where my mental strength came in.

“I kept my spirits high, and despite the accident of being cut and bleeding, I’m proud that I was able to get back to the pace I wanted from the middle of the fight onwards. Still, I’m far from being a finished product, and this match left me with many points to reflect on.”

Nadaka Draws Inspiration From Takeru, Vows To Become Muay Thai Icon

Nadaka couldn’t watch the night’s historic main event from ringside, but there was no chance he was missing compatriot Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa’s crowning moment.

The legendary Japanese striker brought down the curtain on his career in the most poetic way imaginable, stopping Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon in the fifth round to claim the ONE Interim Flyweight Kickboxing World Title.

The Ariake Arena erupted, and Nadaka watched in awe from the back as his compatriot proved, one final time, exactly what it means to transcend the sport.

The atomweight Muay Thai king said:

“I actually had to watch Takeru’s match on a monitor because of my post-fight medical check, but I watched closely. I felt that a ‘superstar’ is someone who truly fulfills their role in the main event, draws the crowd in, and has the power to make the arena explode. That is why they are stars.

“Honestly, looking at my performance today, I don’t think I’m at that level yet. It made me realize I need much more skill.”

Witnessing Takeru exit professional competition on his own terms fired something up in Nadaka.

The 34-year-old leaves kickboxing as one of the greatest Japanese fighters to ever compete, and with Takeru gone, Nadaka deeply feels the weight of what comes next. Honoring the legacy of the “Natural Born Krusher” means raising his own standard every single time he enters the ring.

Nadaka concluded:

“For a fighter, it’s not about what you say, it’s about showing it through your performance in the ring. Seeing Takeru today, I thought he was so cool, and it made me want to become an icon for Muay Thai as well.

“Although I successfully defended my belt for the first time as a ONE World Champion, I know I can’t be satisfied yet. I need to change my mindset and my approach to become that kind of star.”

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