The combat sports world is abuzz with speculation. Just as fans were getting accustomed to seeing Japanese phenom Tenshin Nasukawa dominate the boxing ring, a familiar whisper has turned into a powerful hum: could “The Natural” be returning to his kickboxing roots? The man fanning these flames? None other than Chatri Sityodtong, CEO of ONE Championship, who recently hinted at Nasukawa`s potential return to the very sport where he forged his legend.
From Prodigy to Pound-for-Pound King
For those who may have forgotten – or perhaps are newcomers to the brutal elegance of kickboxing – Tenshin Nasukawa was, for a period, considered the pound-for-pound king. His electrifying style, lightning-fast strikes, and an undefeated record against a litany of top-tier opponents made him a global sensation. He headlined sold-out arenas, captivated audiences with viral knockouts, and etched his name into the annals of kickboxing history before making a dramatic exit in 2022.
The Undefeated Boxing Detour
His departure from kickboxing wasn`t a fade into obscurity, but a bold leap into the world of professional boxing. Many questioned whether his aggressive, kick-heavy style would translate effectively to the “sweet science.” Yet, in true Tenshin fashion, he silenced the doubters. Since his boxing debut in 2023, he has amassed an impressive 7-0 record, including two stoppages. The boxing purists are taking note, especially with whispers of a potential challenge for the vacant WBC title later this year against Takuma Inoue. Not content with just one combat discipline, he’s even had his name floated for a superfight against fellow Japanese boxing superstar Naoya Inoue. The man is simply wired for challenges, seemingly collecting combat disciplines like others collect stamps.
The Lure of the Shin Guard: ONE Championship`s Open Door
But it seems the allure of the shin guard, the crack of a low kick, and the roar of a crowd accustomed to his specific brand of martial arts wizardry, might be proving too strong to resist. Chatri Sityodtong`s recent comments about Tenshin eyeing a future in ONE Championship suggest that the door, which was never truly closed, is now wide open. It begs the question: how many combat sports can one man truly conquer before he decides to return to his first love?
“Tenshin has always been a fighter who seeks new challenges. It`s only natural that after proving himself in boxing, he might once again feel the pull of the sport where he became a legend.”
A Seismic Return and Potential Dream Matchups
A potential return to ONE Championship would be nothing short of seismic. Imagine the matchups: a possible clash with fellow kickboxing-to-boxing convert Yoshiki Takei, or a fresh wave of challengers eager to test themselves against a legend. It would not only re-energize the kickboxing division but also solidify ONE Championship`s position as a premier destination for global martial arts talent. Fans would undoubtedly flock to witness the prodigal son`s return, eager to see if his time in the boxing ring has added new layers to his already formidable arsenal.
The Challenge of the Switch-Up
The path back wouldn`t be without its unique challenges. After two years dedicated to refining his boxing craft, re-acclimating to the full arsenal of kickboxing – the kicks, knees, and clinching – would require a meticulous transition. Yet, if anyone possesses the discipline, talent, and sheer competitive drive to make such a move seamlessly, it is Tenshin Nasukawa. He’s not one to shy away from a complex equation, especially when the solution involves delivering a spectacular knockout.
The prospect of Tenshin`s return offers a fascinating narrative for combat sports fans: a prodigal son, having conquered new lands, contemplating a triumphant return to his original kingdom. While his boxing career continues its upward trajectory, the idea of “The Natural” once again gracing the kickboxing stage is a tantalizing one. It serves as a reminder that in the world of martial arts, careers are rarely linear, and true legends often find new mountains to climb, or, in this case, old mountains to reclaim. The combat world waits with bated breath, eager to see if the whispers of a comeback will evolve into the thunderous roar of his return.
Murray Blackwood