“People are becoming more vocal” - Mikey Musumeci proud that more athletes are speaking out against steroids
Reigning and undisputed ONE flyweight submission grappling world champion 'Darth Rigatoni' Mikey Musumeci of the United States has long been an advocate of a drug-free sport of jiu-jitsu. Taking pride in himself as a naturally clean athlete, Musumeci has been vocal about the use of PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs) in jiu-jitsu.
There aren't many stipulations that prohibit the use of PEDs in the sport, and it isn't universally regulated at the moment. Some jiu-jitsu athletes openly take performance-enhancing substances, and a handful of promotions don't even do testing.
Musumeci is thankful to be competing in ONE Championship, where athletes are consistently drug tested to ensure an even playing field.
'Darth Rigatoni' recently sounded off on PED use and how he's happy that ONE Championship is helping make a change in the sport.
The 28-year-old said:
"We’ll see. But, yeah, definitely, people are becoming more vocal about the change because they have to, which is good at least."
Musumeci joined the world's largest martial arts organization in April 2022, debuting against legendary Japanese grappler Masakazu Imanari. The Italian-American star was victorious via submission and has since racked up seven straight wins in ONE.
Fans won't have to wait long to see Musumeci back in action, as 'Darth Rigatoni' goes for double gold in a few weeks' time.
'Darth Rigatoni' Mikey Musumeci to challenge Kade Ruotolo for lightweight belt at ONE 168: Denver
Flyweight submission grappling king is set to face fellow American Kade Ruotolo for the ONE lightweight submission grappling world title at ONE 168: Denver.
The event broadcasts live from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, on Friday, September 6th.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free on Amazon Prime Video. Those who want to catch the action in-stadium can get tickets on Ticketmaster.
Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event.