Tomorrow, on October 21, Kade Ruotolo will face Uali Kurzhev for the inaugural ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling world title.
The 19-year old Ruotolo has tremendous respect for his opponent, who is a 4-time Sambo world champion.
Here’s what he told to ONE Championship:
I’m hearing that he is one of the greats. He’s a Sambo world champion. So I know he’s a stud, and I know he’s going to be tough.
Sambo guys, in general, they have a very strong wrestling background, usually. And they have very strong upper-body wrestling. They have good picks, inside trips, things like that.
I love to try and take down, stay on top, and get the submission, so I think there will definitely be a clash of styles on the feet.
With that, Kade also feels some pressure to “prove” that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is effective against Sambo:
That’s exactly what my brother (Tye Ruotolo) told me. He goes: “Hey, you’re representing Jiu-Jitsu in this one, so you better hold it down.
Not to add any more pressure, but it’s a guarantee, I think I will feel a little pressure on my shoulders to hold it up for Jiu-Jitsu.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
