"Just trying to create a better influence" - Kade Ruotolo says he'll always be a vocal figure against PEDs in martial arts

ONE lightweight submission grappling world champion Kade Ruotolo says he'll always be a vocal figure against PEDs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It's crazy to believe that PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs) aren't banned from some of the most recognized jiu-jitsu organizations in the world. You would think that someone by now, has come forward and said something.

Unfortunately, many top athletes consider the usage of PEDs as the norm, because that's the way it's been for so many years. However, key figures in the grappling world like Mikey Musumeci, Tye Ruotolo, and Kade - want to show the next generation that there's another way.

To uphold the integrity of the sport that he loves, Kade says that he'll always stand against the usage of PEDs in competitive circles.

Speaking on The MMA Hour, with Ariel Helwani Kade said:

"It's something my brother and I have always spoken out against. We're not fond of it, but we've just come to the conclusion that I'll forever be in the sport, I don't see when the sport was forever steroid-free. That's the reason why we try to be as verbal as we can with just trying to create a better influence for the kids who will follow suit and follow that same line."

Ruotolo's first line of action is to lead by example with the support of his fans.

This year, he is en route to defending his ONE lightweight crown against fellow anti-PEDs world grappler, Mikey Musumeci at ONE 168: Denver. Together, they're on a mission to prove that hard work is stronger than any PED on the planet.

Tickets for ONE 168: Denver is available at Ticketmaster.

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"You're a legend bro!" - Flyweight grappling king Mikey Musumeci feels honored to share the American stage with fellow legend Kade Ruotolo

Kade Ruotolo vs. Mikey Musumeci is a dream matchup that rarely comes to fulfillment.

There are so many fights out there that get thrown into the mix as potential dream matches that every fan wants to see, but none of them have happened.

However, in ONE Championship, that's not the case. We've seen Superlek vs. Takeru and Rodtang vs. Demetrious Johnson, so it's not wild to see two legendary grapplers like Mikey Musumeci and Kade Ruotolo compete for ultimate glory at ONE 168: Denver.

The two buddies share the opinion that they are the greatest jiu-jitsu practitioners in the world. Hence, they're so excited to thrill the fans with an epic grappling match that will keep them on the edge of their seats throughout.

Commenting on Kade's Instagram post, Musumeci wrote:

"You're a legend bro!. Truly an honor to have the opportunity to have a match with you. still want to root for you against me. HAHAHA natty world championship let's go!!!"