Kade Ruotolo and Tommy Langaker will run their ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Championship match back. On Thursday, ONE Championship announced the rematch will be the co-main event of ONE 165 in Tokyo, Japan. The second encounter takes place inside Ariake Arena on Sunday, January 28.
The two first met at ONE Fight Night 11 last June. In the match, Ruotolo survived an early submission attempt from the Norwegian before rallying and taking home the gold by unanimous decision. However, since that time, the two have taken different paths.
The champion has yet to be back in active competition since that meeting. The San Diego native relocated to Costa Rica with his brother Tye Ruotolo to build their new gym. In addition to the twin’s business plans, Kade has been preparing for a transition into mixed martial arts.
Langaker has instead been focused on staying active. In his time since the title tilt, the Wulfing Academy standout has gone 14-1 in grappling bouts. Langaker took home the IBJJF No Gi European and World Titles during that run.
Their time since their first meeting adds more intrigue to the rematch. What tactics will have changed after competing against one another? Will Ruotolo’s time away be a detriment or a benefit? Who will be able to dictate the action?
All of those questions will come to a head at ONE 165. The co-main event will put submission grappling back under the spotlight in a massive way on a special night in Japan. Grappling aficionados will want to be locked in for this incredible title rematch.
ONE 165 airs live on Sunday, January 28. The event takes place at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. Stay tuned for news and bout announcements at MMASucka.com.
