Tye Ruotolo is set to defend his ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling Championship against Pawel Jaworski at ONE Fight Night 41. The co-main event, scheduled for March 13th, marks Ruotolo’s return to submission grappling after a series of impressive MMA victories where he finished previously undefeated opponents.
Reflecting on his transition back to jiu-jitsu from MMA training, Tye Ruotolo shared his thoughts:
“It’s interesting. I had been so focused on MMA training and the sport in general. Coming back to jiu-jitsu for a moment, I started thinking about all the things I might have been missing. It’s really just been about dusting off the cobwebs, and that process has been genuinely enjoyable. I didn’t feel like I could truly lose my jiu-jitsu skills since I’ve been doing it my entire life. So, it’s about getting back into it and working through the intricate problems unique to jiu-jitsu that aren’t necessarily part of MMA.”
“I’ve loved engaging my mind in that way again. I’ve somewhat fallen back in love with jiu-jitsu through this training, and I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to defend my belt against someone like Pawel, a high-level leg locker known for being very dangerous.”
When asked if he views Jaworski’s primary skill set in this championship bout as his leg lock game, Tye Ruotolo elaborated:
“Yes, Pawel has what I would describe as a very singular path to victory, at least in our specific matchup. I believe he has perhaps one route to winning, and that involves leg locks. That’s his specialty, and it seems he dedicates all his focus to them, from what I’ve gathered. He’s one of the best in the world at it, one of the most dangerous guys globally when it comes to leg locks. So, I certainly know it’s not something I can underestimate.”
“However, I also feel that his route to victory directly challenges my strongest asset, which is my defense. I genuinely believe, in the most humble way possible, that my leg lock defense is probably the best in the world. I truly feel I cannot be leg locked, and we’re going to put that to the test very soon. Pawel is extremely dangerous, and I’m eager to test that theory. It’s been a long time since someone has truly threatened my leg, and I’m excited for this challenge.”
Tye Ruotolo: “I’m Dangerous” Heading into ONE FN 41 Title Defense
After acknowledging Jaworski’s threat, particularly in the heel hook department, but also emphasizing his own multifaceted game, Tye Ruotolo confidently stated:
“Yes, I strive to be as realistic as possible. Sometimes it’s not good to have false confidence, even though confidence itself is beneficial. But I know what I’m capable of, and I know I can finish a match anywhere. Whether with my own leg locks, arm bars, chokes, anywhere—I am dangerous. And I know he’s also dangerous. So, yes, I just need to approach the match for what it is and come in strong.”