ONE Championship: Naito demands Takeru bout – ‘I'm underrated, he's overrated'
While no fights have been officially confirmed, Naito is campaigning hard for what would be the biggest opportunity of his career – a homecoming clash with compatriot Takeru Segawa.
'I want to fight at ONE 173,' Naito told the Post. 'And it would be great if I could compete with Takeru in Japan.
'I haven't fought in Japan for a long time, but I want to show my progress in my home country.'
Naito, 29, is coming off a statement win over previously unbeaten Johan Estupinan at ONE Fight Night 32 in Bangkok. He floored the Colombian with a sharp counter left in round two and earned a majority decision after three rounds of composed, counter-heavy Muay Thai.
Taiki Naito (right) after his victory over Johan Estupinan at ONE Fight Night 32. Photo: ONE Championship
'I had been on a two-match losing streak,' he said. 'But I was able to beat an undefeated opponent and show new possibilities for myself.'
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