Yuki Yoza’s bantamweight kickboxing clash against ONE flyweight kickboxing world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 173 on November 16 carries the weight of unfinished business that isn’t entirely his own.
The 27-year-old Japanese striker steps into Tokyo’s Ariake Arena carrying more than personal championship aspirations. He carries the redemption hopes of his Team Vasileus stablemate Takeru Segawa, who suffered a defeat to Superlek at ONE 165.
That contest left deep scars that extend beyond the physical damage Takeru absorbed. The former three-division K-1 Champion endured five rounds of pressure from Superlek, who used technical precision and relentless leg attacks to neutralize the Japanese legend’s explosiveness. The defeat was so demoralizing that Takeru considered retirement.
But Takeru now has faith that Yoza can right his wrongs.
“I’m really excited. I believe Yuki can definitely beat him. If I can use my experience to help him even a little, I’d love for our team to get revenge through him,” Takeru said.
For Yoza, accepting this responsibility represents the ultimate test of both skill and character. Rather than focusing solely on his own career advancement, he has embraced the chance to accomplish what his mentor couldn’t — defeating one of the sport’s most accomplished champions.
“I’ll take care of it. I’m definitely going to win,” Yoza promised.
The confidence stems from impressive recent performances that have established him among the division’s rising contenders. His victories over Russian powerhouse Elbrus Osmanov and former champion Petchtanong Petchfergus showcased the technical skills and finishing ability that make him a legitimate threat.
But Superlek represents a completely different challenge than previous opponents. The 29-year-old Thai has conquered legends across multiple weight classes, including dominant victories over Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Jonathan Haggerty, and Takeru. His resume speaks to championship-level excellence that few have matched.
Yoza acknowledges the magnitude of this test while embracing the opportunity to prove himself against the pound-for-pound great.
“I’ve had some close fights, but I’ve never felt like I outright lost or was about to lose in a pure striking exchange. That’s actually something I’m really looking forward to testing in this next fight,” he said.
Victory would accomplish multiple objectives. It would fulfill his promise to Takeru while catapulting him toward his ultimate goal, an opportunity against reigning bantamweight king Jonathan Haggerty.
“This fight isn’t the goal,” said Yoza.
“I’m not underestimating him at all, but beating him is just the start. Standing in front of me now is Superlek, but my real target is Haggerty.”
