“I love fighting big guys” - Tye Ruotolo eyes 185-pound strap in ONE Championship

Tye Ruotolo made quick work of his opponent on his return to the circle. He and his brother Kade both picked up victories at ONE on Prime Video 5. Moving forward, Tye believes he's capable of winning a world title in a bigger weight class.

Not only did the 19-year-old grappling sensation pick up another win inside the circle, he did so in emphatic fashion, scoring a wrist-lock submission over Marat Gafurov. The showing earned Ruotolo a $50,000 performance bonus.

The Hawaiian-born grappler spoke to reporters after his match to discuss breaking into the 185-pound division. He said in his post-fight presser:

"But for me, I want to get maybe starting at 185 pound division and get the belt there and then if that doesn't work out I'm open to fighting anyone. My thing is, I love fighting big guys and beating bigger people... I feel like that's the true essence of jiu-jitsu. With pure technique, you should be able to beat someone no matter the size. So really anyone in the world, the bigger the better."

The grappler concluded:

"So I've been moving up, fighting all the big guys, and I'm figuring out the formula. I had some success in the beginning and in every match I have, I'm becoming more and more successful with it."

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Tye Ruotolo says he's on the cusp of earning a title shot

Despite competing in just two matches under ONE's banner till date, Tye Ruotolo believes he's nearing a chance to compete for a world title. If he were to secure a belt, he'd join his brother Kade in being a submission grappling world champion.

Tye told the media after his bout at ONE on Prime Video 5:

“Like I said, you know, we've both gone through waves of opportunity. Right now, my brother's killing it with the belt in the co-main and for sure, I'd like to be there as well, but I know my opportunity is going to come sooner or later."

The Brazilian jiu-jitsu phenom added:

"So as long as I keep doing my thing, keep submitting and putting on good performances, I'll have a belt around my waist and I'll be right there with my brother.”

Make sure to check back for an announcement pertaining to Tye Ruotolo's next match, as it's always must-watch television when the Ruotolo brothers are competing.

Check out Tye Ruotolo's full ONE on Prime Video 5 post-fight presser below: