ONE SAMURAI Kickoff Conference Post-Event Report: Fighters Takeru and Rodtang, Facing Retirement Matches, Take the Stage! Both Strongly Declare, "We Will Definitely Win."

ONE Championship (Group ONE Holding) held the "ONE SAMURAI Kickoff Conference" at Hosho Noh Theater on Monday, March 30, 2026.

Founder and CEO Chatri Sityodtong took the stage to officially announce the new Japan-original series "ONE SAMURAI." The event kicked off with a special opening act featuring an original movie screening, a performance by the Japanese taiko drum group Kodo, and an iaido demonstration.

Fighters Rodtang and Takeru, whose participation in "ONE SAMURAI 1" on Wednesday, April 29 (public holiday) has been confirmed, took the stage, along with Yuya Wakamatsu, Yuki Yoza, Kaito, Haruyuki, and Jonathan Haggerty. Additionally, Nadaka Yoshinari and Sonchanoi, who were announced on the day to compete in the ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Championship title match, also appeared and spoke about their aspirations for their respective fights.

Furthermore, Shuntaro Tanaka, CEO of ONE Championship Japan, and Ali Steiman, Japan Representative for Roblox Asia, took the stage to announce their collaboration with Roblox.

ONE Championship Founder and CEO: Chatri Sityodtong took the stage to make an announcement including additional information about "ONE SAMURAI 1."

Chatri Sityodtong took the stage and announced the official partnership agreements with RISE, KNOCK OUT, Shoot Boxing, Pancrase, and Shooto.

Regarding ONE SAMURAI, CEO Chatri commented: "This series, above all, will bring a wonderful future to the fighters. Regardless of their fame, we are prepared to pay bonuses based on their fighting spirit. For fans, it will be a tournament where they can feel the stories of fighters challenging the world."

Finally, addressing Japanese fans, he concluded strongly: "Please come to Ariake Arena on April 29. Let's witness together the moment ONE SAMURAI carves out a new era."

Fighters Rodtang x Takeru, Nadaka Yoshinari x Sonchanoi, Yuya Wakamatsu, Yuki Yoza, Haggerty, Kaito, and Haruyuki also took the stage! They spoke about their aspirations for their upcoming matches.

Takeru: "My previous fight against Rodtang was, I would say, the most humiliating defeat of my career. Re-