This is a matchup of two very different fighters.

Takei is a dynamic southpaw who bursts into exchanges with confidence — and seemingly enjoys prolonged firefights. He’s aggressive, comfortable in chaos, and thrives when trading blows.

Tongdee, by contrast, is a much slower-paced boxer. He builds his attacks carefully behind the jab, rarely takes risks, and relies on spurts of activity to steal rounds.

This is one of those matchups where both game plans could be effective, depending on who imposes their rhythm.

Takei is 28, Tongdee is 31 — both near their physical peaks.

Takei clearly holds the edge in professional boxing experience, having faced the likes of Jason Moloney and Daigo Higa — quality opposition by any standard.

But Thai fighters often come from deep Muay Thai backgrounds, logging hundreds of fights before switching to boxing. So despite his quieter profile, Tongdee may be more seasoned than he appears.

Despite their contrasting styles, both fighters throw a similar volume — averaging around 45 to 55 punches per round. Their accuracy is also roughly equal.

That means the outcome is unlikely to hinge on output or efficiency — but rather on preparation, adaptability, and the ability to execute a smart, opponent-specific strategy.

2023 was the best year of Takei’s career — he defeated Moloney, then beat Higa in a wild, back-and-forth war. Two statement victories. Title around his waist. Momentum on his side.

Tongdee fought three times last year, but logged eight fewer rounds than Takei — 16 compared to 24. The Japanese fighter went the distance twice, while the Thai scored two third-round knockouts before going 10 rounds in his final bout of the year.

Tongdee is a physically strong fighter and can certainly land with impact, but he’s not a natural puncher.

Takei’s shots look heavier, and the numbers back it up — he has more stoppage wins. Still, his aggressive tendencies make him vulnerable, and no one would be shocked if he gets caught while overcommitting.

Takei endured a brutal, high-paced fight against Higa and never went down — despite taking plenty of clean, hard shots. He weathered the storm and came back to win.

As for Tongdee — he seems durable, but has never been tested by anyone with Takei’s combination of aggression, power, and precision.

Takei, who resides in Yokohama, will fight there for the first time. The local support will be entirely in his corner.

Tongdee, meanwhile, is making his debut outside Thailand — and stepping into a true away-game atmosphere.

Takei enters as the clear favorite. He’s the champion, coming off a brilliant year, and opening 2025 against an unbeaten but little-known challenger. He also holds a 10 cm height advantage, and is eyeing a unification bout with Junto Nakatani. Losing to Tongdee doesn’t fit into those plans.

But, as always with Thai fighters — underestimating them is dangerous. They often bring vast experience from other combat sports, have natural toughness, and fight with heart.

Takei must remain focused and cautious — or risk becoming the upset story himself.