Number-two ranked flyweight kickboxing contender Takeru Segawa might not show his opponents any sympathy in the ring, but outside of it, “The Natural Born Crusher” is as generous as they come.
The three-division K-1 Champion meets former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon at ONE 172 in a five-round flyweight kickboxing super-fight on Sunday, March 23, inside Japan’s Saitama Super Arena.
As a kickboxing superstar, Takeru has always used his fame to give back to people whenever he gets the chance. In fact, his acts of kindness even earned him the 2025 Victoria Lee Award.
That said, here are five times when the 33-year-old Japanese athlete helped those fighting for their own causes.
Takeru Pledges ONE 172 Fight Purse To Help Build School In Laos
Most recently, while preparing for ONE 172, Takeru promised to donate a large portion of the financial earnings he will get from fighting Rodtang to build a school in Laos.
Currently, only 45 percent of schools in the country’s rural areas provide education up to the third grade. On top of that, 20 percent of children in these locations don’t have access to schools at all. Takeru’s generosity will certainly help underprivileged and at-risk youth in these areas.
But this won’t be the only time Takeru will have helped Laos children.
Takeru Donates Substantial Funds To Laos Flood Victims
Following the horrendous floods in 2024 that affected over 145,000 Laos citizens, Takeru visited several schools in the country.
He donated water filters so children and teachers can have access to drinking water without risking illness. His donations also went toward the repairs of school bathrooms. If that wasn’t enough, Takeru taught the many children he met how to box during a pad work session.
Takeru’s generosity didn’t stop there, either.
Takeru Gifts Part Of His Winnings To Myanmar Flood Victims
After participating in a two-round war with Myanmar’s Thant Zin at ONE Friday Fights 81 in September 2024, Takeru donated part of his fight purse to flood victims and organizations responsible for rebuilding affected parts of the country.
Takeru did this in coordination with Thant Zin’s team, who made sure the funds went to the right places and expressed gratitude for the Japanese legend’s offerings. Thant Zin’s manager said:
“The donations made by Takeru will be coordinated with the relevant organizations and committees.
“On behalf of the entire people of Myanmar, we sincerely appreciate and respect Takeru for his kindness.”
Takeru Volunteers Time At Japanese Schools
In July and October of 2024, Takeru visited a few childcare facilities in his home country. There, he spent time with students, answering their questions and even putting on a kickboxing pad work demonstration.
But Takeru showed another act of kindness the year prior in a country altogether different from his own.
Takeru Visits School In Vietnam As Legendary ‘Tiger Mask’
In July 2023, Takeru traveled to Vietnam to spend time with special needs students at a childcare center in Tuen Quan Province.
Dressed as the legendary professional wrestling character “Tiger Mask,” Takeru handed out gifts to the students and school. In fact, he provided them with televisions and air conditioners, all while empowering and encouraging the children.