“I'm really stoked” - Kade Ruotolo thrilled with emphatic victory over Ahmed Mujtaba in second MMA fight
Reigning and undisputed ONE lightweight submission grappling world champion turned mixed martial artist Kade Ruotolo of the United States is unequivocally satisfied with his performance in his second MMA fight for the world's largest martial arts organization.
Ruotolo is now a perfect 2-0 in ONE Championship, after delivering an epic first-round submission win over Pakistan's 'Wolverine' Ahmed Mujtaba last weekend at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Prime Video.
Addressing the media at the official ONE 169 press conference backstage, Ruotolo shared his thoughts on his second MMA fight, and why he is thankful for the win.
The 21-year-old Atos jiu-jitsu product stated:
"My debut, obviously, a lot of nerves going into it. It is a whole different world, I was a little bit more cautious. And my brother this time around, he's like, hey, we're here to make a statement. And I'm like, alright, sounds good. I'm really stoked to be able to make a statement, really."
Ruotolo showcased his ever-improving striking game against Mujtaba, decking the Pakistani star with an overhand right before securing his signature D'Arce choke to force the tap early.
ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Prime Video took place live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Saturday, November 9. Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action via replay on-demand with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.
Kade Ruotolo wouldn't mind going 'straight for the belt' in showdown with Christian Lee
To say Kade Ruotolo is aiming high in his MMA career is an understatement. The 21-year-old is already thinking title shot after beating Ahmed Mujtaba at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Prime Video to go 2-0 in his MMA career.
He told the media:
"I'm a very ambitious person, so I like the sound of it, for sure. That being said, it's only my second MMA fight, right? So, you know, go straight to the belt, there's a massive opportunity. You know, obviously it's a big step up as well. But you know, personally, I'm down. But I know my coaches, my team, and everyone around me, is going to be saying do it smart, get the experience. That's the top of the mountain in MMA, right? So might as well enjoy it as well."
Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding Kade Ruotolo's next fight.