Kade Ruotolo's Journey to ADCC Success

In a recent episode of the JAXXON Podcast, Kade Ruotolo, the youngest-ever ADCC Submission Fighting World Champion, shared insights into his remarkable achievements in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). At just 19 years old, Ruotolo clinched the 2022 ADCC World Championship in the 77 kg division, a feat that solidified his status as a prodigy in the grappling world. He discussed the intense preparation and mindset required to compete at such a high level, emphasizing the importance of consistency and dedication in his training regimen. Ruotolo also highlighted the significance of the ADCC platform in showcasing the best grapplers globally, detailing how his victory has shaped his career trajectory.

Sibling Rivalry and Team Dynamics

Around the midway point of the discussion, Ruotolo opened up about his unique relationship with his twin brother, Tye, who is also a top-tier grappler. The brothers often train together, pushing each other to new heights through intense sparring sessions that he described as both challenging and motivating. This sibling rivalry, rooted in mutual respect, has been a driving force behind their success. Ruotolo shared anecdotes of their competitive battles on the mat, illustrating how their bond fuels their individual growth while maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie within their team environment at Atos Jiu-Jitsu.

Highlighting the Best in BJJ

Shifting focus near the 30-minute mark, Ruotolo offered his perspective on the current landscape of BJJ, naming some of the fighters he considers the best in the sport. He expressed admiration for athletes who combine technical prowess with innovative strategies, discussing how these elements inspire his own approach to grappling. While avoiding specific rankings, he emphasized the diversity of talent in the sport and how different styles contribute to its evolution. His analysis provided listeners with a deeper understanding of what separates elite competitors in the highly competitive world of submission grappling.

Transition to MMA and Future Aspirations

Towards the latter part of the podcast, Ruotolo delved into his anticipated debut in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) under ONE Championship, where he currently holds the lightweight submission grappling title. He spoke candidly about the challenges of transitioning from pure grappling to a sport that incorporates striking and other disciplines. Ruotolo detailed his training adjustments, including working on striking skills to complement his world-class ground game. He expressed excitement about testing himself in this new arena, viewing it as an opportunity to expand his skill set and reach a broader audience in combat sports.