After a lifetime of training and competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it’s safe to say that reigning ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Champion Mikey “Darth Rigatoni” Musumeci knows a thing or two about maintaining a passion for martial arts.

The American star is now in final preparations for his hotly anticipated rematch with ONE newcomer Gabriel Sousa, who he’ll meet in a bantamweight submission grappling contest at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Prime Video on June 7, the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, but he took time out to discuss his life long interest with ONE Championship.

Mikey Musimeci has a message for the parents

Musumeci started BJJ at the age of four alongside his sister, fellow ONE star and decorated competitor Tammi Musumeci. He was hooked on the grappling art from the jump, and he believes his passion flourished because it came naturally and wasn’t forced.

“I think a lot of parents push their kids too much to do certain things, and then you’ll see the kid ends up quitting jiu-jitsu because they hate it. It has to come from inside. The parent has to do a good job in making the kid choose what passion they want and to stick with it. It has to come from the kid,” he explained.

In “Darth Rigatoni’s” case, the results of his early interest speak for themselves. In addition to his ONE World Title, he is a five-time IBJJF World Champion and is widely regarded as the greatest American-born BJJ competitor.

“Darth Rigatoni” has the perfect advice on children’s training

As he readies himself to move up a weight class and seek revenge against the last man to submit him, Musumeci offers some sage advice to parents who want their children to take up martial arts.

“Don’t tell your kid they have to train,” the flyweight submission kingpin said.

 What you’re going to do is you’re going to go train, and you’re going to have your kid sometimes go. But you’re going to make it your cool thing, and then your kid’s going to want to do it because it’s your cool thing. And he’s going to want to do what you’re doing.”