Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom Kade Ruotolo is feeling supremely confident ahead of his much-anticipated MMA debut at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Prime Video.
On June 7 in U.S. primetime, the current ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion will lace up the 4-ounce gloves to take on Hawaiian slugger Blake Cooper in an MMA tilt that has captivated martial arts fans around the planet.
Kade Ruotolo’s aggressive grappling style primed for MMA success
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That contest will go down at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, and will mark one of the biggest MMA debuts in recent memory. At just 21 years old, Ruotolo has firmly established himself as one of the top pound-for-pound grapplers in the world, beloved for his ultra-aggressive style and seemingly reckless pursuit of the submission.
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The Californian and his twin brother, reigning welterweight submission grappling kingpin Tye Ruotolo, have been grappling that way their entire lives. He says that their crowd-pleasing style, with its emphasis on constant attacks and working from the top position, is perfectly suited for the all-around sport of MMA: “In the most humble way possible, I believe our style is the best for that transition [to MMA]. We pride ourselves on having solid wrestling. We love our wrestling.”
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He further added, “We throw submissions out from many different positions, kind of spontaneous submissions, solid wrestling, and our forward pressure and just aggression in jiu-jitsu translates very well to MMA, as well. We’re nice outside the ring. We try to be super mellow, good vibes, but when we step in the ring, all that goes out the window.”
Ruotolo is certain about his victory
Beyond his incredible technical acumen in the grappling department, Ruotolo says that the countless battles he’s had with his brother in the training room have developed in him an unbreakable mindset.
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With a lifetime of wars under his belt, Ruotolo is confident that when he steps into the Circle against Cooper at ONE 167, he won’t be tested any harder than he has already: “I just know I will not have a fight tougher than what I’ve gone through with my brother. I don’t think it’s possible. I don’t know if it’s humanly possible. My brother and I have done what we’ve done our entire lives. Building that mental strength. I don’t think a lot of people are prepared to go those lengths.”
Kade Ruotolo has promised to himself that he will emerge victorious in his bout against Cooper at ONE 167. Who do you think would get the taste the victory? State your thoughts in the comments below.