Experience is invaluable when self-belief is strong. For Denis Puric, his upcoming battle with celebrated Japanese striker Takeru Segawa represents an opportunity to silence his critics.
The 40-year-old Bosnian-Canadian competitor is set to face the #2-ranked contender in flyweight kickboxing at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16, held at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. Puric has long sought high-stakes challenges, and this contest against a three-division K-1 Champion is precisely what he has been pursuing.
His time in ONE Championship is marked by a series of intense contests. Puric achieved a knockout victory over rising talent Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat in the second round and endured three challenging rounds against Thai superstar Rodtang Jitmuangnon, demonstrating his resilience. Additionally, he secured a unanimous decision win over Jacob Smith, knocking him down twice.
However, his journey has not been without its challenges. Following his confrontation with Rodtang, Puric experienced a setback with a no contest against Elias Mahmoudi and a loss to Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi. These experiences prompted him to re-evaluate his entire strategy.
“I wasn’t taking into account my age of 40. So, the last fight served as a reminder, and I decided to take a more measured approach,” he explained.
“I’m going to slow down, recuperate, concentrate on training, and avoid rushing into fights.”
Denis Puric discusses his tactical shift to kickboxing
Denis Puric came to the conclusion that his physical condition necessitated a change in direction. His choice to concentrate solely on kickboxing rather than Muay Thai stemmed from both practical insight and strategic planning.
ONE Championship’s Muay Thai regulations involve 4-ounce gloves, elbow strikes, and significant clinch engagements. Kickboxing eliminates these aggressive elements while incorporating heavier gloves and limiting clinch work. For a 40-year-old fighter aiming to prolong his career, this adjustment was logical.
“I believe I should prioritize kickboxing over Muay Thai. The [Muay Thai] competitors are young and much younger than me,” Puric stated.
“I feel I can still compete with the best in kickboxing. So, I’ll allow the younger fighters to dominate the Muay Thai scene, while I aim for the kickboxing title.”
