Tye Ruotolo successfully defended the ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Championship at ONE Fight Night 31. In a 10-minute battle, the ONE Championship grappling ace bested Dante Leon in Bangkok, Thailand. Although he won, the Atos BJJ star only gave himself a six or seven as a rating.
Tye Ruotolo Disappointed to Only Come Away with Decision But Gives Dante Leon Plaudit
“I felt like I kind of smashed him pretty good, but I didn’t get the sub. That’s what I always come to do. I felt like I had a little bit of ‘ring rust’ I had to shake off. But I definitely feel like I got a dominant win, so I was happy with that at least,” Tye Ruotolo remarked to ONE after the event.
The victory gave him the edge in their series at 2-1. The trilogy bout tested Tye Ruotolo’s aggressiveness as he continuously worked from top position. After another grueling bout against the Canadian, the 22-year-old had nothing but praise to offer Leon.
“Dante’s been in the game for a long time. He’s a seasoned veteran, and he’s got wins over some of the best in the world. After three matches like that, you can’t help but have a lot of respect for the guy, win, lose, or draw. And he’s a cool guy,” Ruotolo stated.
Tye Ruotolo Ready to Take on MMA
Throughout the weekend of ONE Fight Night 31, Tye Ruotolo teased his entry into MMA. The grappling king noted his brother Kade’s success since transitioning into the sport, and his jealousy watching him succeed. Ruotolo is already dropping potential names that would entice him for his first entry into the sport.
“The Lee fight sounds interesting. Adrian Lee for the debut would be awesome. I don’t really care, that’s one that ONE kind of sent my way. Whoever they want to throw my way. I’m ready for Adrian, but I don’t really have anyone in mind. That’s the first one they threw at me, so that’s the first name I’m sticking with. But whoever they want to throw at me, I’m ready to go, I’m excited to scrap, for sure,” Tye Ruotolo explained.
Don’t Expect Tye Ruotolo to Leave Grappling Behind Altogether
While it’s clear that an MMA debut is on the horizon, it does not mean Ruotolo is stopping with grappling. He plans to continue defending the ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Title. Whatever comes first, Tye Ruotolo is adamant he will be ready for the challenge.
“Oh, always, always ready to defend this thing. Super excited for any challenger that comes my way. Anyone that feels like they can take me out at 185, just make sure you text Tom DeBlass, ‘cause I’m ready to go,” Ruotolo concluded.
