"That would be a fun match-up" - Teenage phenom Adrian Lee believes he'll cross paths with Kade Ruotolo in MMA
ONE lightweight MMA rising star Adrian Lee wants to take on a fellow high-profile prospect who has also just begun his mixed martial arts journey.
'The Phenom' made a rousing professional debut at ONE 167 last June, where he submitted Antonio Mammarella to put the entire 170-pound division on notice.
It just so happens that reigning ONE lightweight submission grappling world champion Kade Ruotolo also donned the four-ounce gloves for the first time in the same event.
Like Lee, the CJI under -80kg champ also aced his transition to MMA, where he tapped Blake Cooper in less than a round.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Lee was asked about potential match-ups he'd like to have in the world's largest martial arts organization.
While the 18-year-old wunderkind will gladly take on anyone, he thinks a showdown with Ruotolo is something the fans would want to see:
"I’ll fight anyone. I think Kade [Ruotolo] would be a fun match, he’s also an up-and-coming prospect who is very decorated in his grappling history. I think that would be a fun matchup in the future as well.”
Obviously, Ruotolo has been grappling pretty much all his life, so the Atos stud could still be favored if this potential match hits the ground. Then again, MMA is in Adrian Lee's blood.
One thing's for sure, this hypothetical showdown between two talented studs should turn a lot of heads.
Adrian Lee reveals his lofty career goals
Adrian Lee truly has the talent and the right people around him to make it big. By the looks of it, the Singaporean-American star isn't afraid to reach for the stars either.
In an earlier interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Lee revealed he wants to leave a lasting legacy once it's all said and done.
"I plan to be the greatest combat athlete of all time."
The replay of Adrian Lee's stellar performance at ONE 168: Denver is available on demand to those with a Prime Video subscription in North America.