"When the student becomes the master" - Relive Mikey Musumeci's poetic 'Aoki Lock' submission over its creator Shinya Aoki

We just never comprehended how great of a grappler Mikey Musumeci was until he defeated grappling pioneer Shinya Aoki at ONE Fight Night 15. The flyweight submission grappling kingpin was honored to share the world stage with 'The Master of Flying Submissions' Shinya Aoki, on Nov. 3 in Bangkok.

Like many elite grapplers, Musumeci is one of many students who have taken a page or two out of Aoki's handbook on submission grappling. The famed 'Aoki Lock,' in particular, is Musumeci's favorite leg lock.

He's used the modified version of the 'Aoki Lock' many times against IBJJF-level practitioners before joining ONE, so it's known to be one of his deadliest weapons. But the fact that Musumeci used it against its creator, gave it a whole new meaning for the young champ.

This week, ONE Championship released a throwback clip of Musumeci tapping out Aoki on Instagram, with the caption that read:

"When the student becomes the master. Can Mikey Musumeci become a two-division king when he challenges Kade Ruotolo for the lightweight submission grappling crown on September 6 at ONE 168: Denver?"

The fans went through the roof online, commenting messages of praise and respect on Musumeci's behalf.

Even UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili, couldn't help but be proud of Musumeci's humble attitude towards Aoki in the aftermath.

Dvalishvili wrote:

"I like this respect."

Check out all the best fan comments below:

Fan reactions

Fan reactions

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"I always ask to train with him" - Mikey Musumeci is thrilled about the prospect of fighting a grappler whom he respects at ONE 168: Denver

'Darth Rigatoni' Mikey Musumeci is looking forward to challenging ONE lightweight submission grappling kingpin Kade Ruotolo in Denver on Sept. 6.

The New Jersey native has always wanted to roll with the Ruotolo twins in between fights to share some trademark secrets. But, as chance would have it, Musumeci will instead meet Kade in the ONE circle to try for a second-world title. For him, it's a win-win situation for Musumeci, who is looking to level up his grappling game as well as establish himself as the No. 1 flyweight and lightweight submission grappler in the world.

Ahead of ONE 168: Denver, 'Darth Rigatoni' said he's got nothing but mad respect for Kade:

"I always ask to train with him, so why not just do it in front of a lot people? It will be really exciting, you know? But also the energy we have with each other, so respectful."

Tickets for ONE 168: Denver are available via Ticketmaster.