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Kade Ruotolo's journey from grappling sensation to MMA powerhouse has been nothing short of extraordinary. Fresh off a successful MMA debut, the American phenom is brimming with confidence as he prepares to defend his ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Title against the formidable Mikey Musumeci at ONE 168: Denver on September 6.
Ruotolo's transition to MMA this past June was nothing short of spectacular. In his first match, he dispatched Blake Cooper with a rear-naked choke in the first round, showcasing his adaptability and toughness. This triumph has not only elevated his reputation but also infused him with a newfound sense of invincibility.
“I feel a bit invincible as far as, like, a toughness scale. When you start taking punches and knees and elbows, it’s just like jiu-jitsu becomes so easy – or easier,”
Ruotolo shared, reflecting on his MMA experience.
“Those accidental kicks or that collar tie that slaps you in the face or whatever, it’s nothing compared to MMA. I think it’s tougher.”
Ruotolo's fans have grown accustomed to his electrifying performances, and his demolition of Cooper further solidified his status as a rising star. As he returns to his core discipline of submission grappling in Denver, there’s no sign that he’ll ease up on his signature intensity.
Facing Ruotolo is Mikey Musumeci, a flyweight king with an impeccable resume. Known as Darth Rigatoni, Musumeci boasts five IBJJF World Championships and an undefeated record in ONE Championship, where he has defended his Flyweight Submission Grappling World Title three times. Despite Ruotolo’s size advantage, Musumeci’s unmatched technical prowess makes him a formidable challenger.
As Ruotolo gears up for this highly anticipated showdown, one thing is certain: the young champion’s confidence and relentless drive will be on full display in Denver.
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