Denis Puric has warned Takeru Segawa not to make the mistake of looking past him – insisting the Japanese superstar’s obsession with a ONE Championship rematch against Rodtang Jitmuangnon could prove costly.
The 40-year-old ‘Bosnian Menace’ meets the former three-division K-1 champion at ONE 173 on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, in a flyweight kickboxing bout that could have major title implications.
‘I feel like he’s focused too much on Rodtang and not realising what’s in front of him,’ Puric told the Bangkok Post from home in Canada, where he is finishing his fight camp. ‘He keeps talking about that rematch – but he’s got me first. It’s not going to be an easy ride to get there, buddy.’
Takeru was knocked out by Rodtang in March at ONE 172 and has made no secret of wanting revenge. Puric, however, believes he can ruin those plans.
‘He might be faster, but I hit harder,’ he said. ‘Once we start boxing, it’s going to be tough for him. His head is too open, and he doesn’t have the greatest chin. He’s not going to be able to box with me.
‘He’s a pitter-patter guy. I’m more explosive. I know what he’s coming for – the calf kicks and little body work – and I’ll be ready.’
Puric, who went the distance with Rodtang last year at Impact Arena in Bangkok, says he is in peak form ahead of his return to Japan.
‘I’m in that Rodtang fight shape,’ he said. ‘I’ve had a long camp this time and I’m ready for a war. At 40, I’ve learned I need longer recovery and smarter preparation – but I feel better than ever.’
The veteran striker added that a win over Takeru should lead to a long-awaited title opportunity – whether against Superlek Kiatmuu9, who has not defended his flyweight kickboxing belt in nearly two years, or a rematch with Rodtang.
‘I want that title shot,’ Puric said. ‘If Superlek stays up at bantamweight, then me and Rodtang can fight for an interim belt. Either way, I’m next.’
Puric said he still has huge respect for Takeru but warned that admiration won’t stop him from delivering an upset in front of the Japanese crowd.
‘He’s a legend, no doubt,’ he said. ‘But I’ve been visualising that knockout every day. It’s going to be a long night for him in Tokyo.’
ONE 173 marks the promotion’s return to Japan after a record-breaking event at Saitama Super Arena in March, which drew more than 10,000 fans and a US$2 million gate.
The stacked November card will also feature seven title fights, including Superbon defending his featherweight kickboxing belt against Masaaki Noiri, Stamp Fairtex returning to action, and Superlek facing Yuki Yoza in a bantamweight kickboxing bout.
Puric, though, believes it will be his performance that steals the show.
‘When the big bad Bosno is in shape,’ he said with a grin, ‘you’re in trouble.’