“He’s dangerous with the front headlock position” – Izaak Michell particularly wary of Tye Ruotolo’s signature D’Arce chokes

Now aware of the danger, submission grappling star Izaak Michell is cautious about leaving his neck vulnerable in the presence of Tye Ruotolo.

The Australian grappler is set to make his debut for the promotion on Friday, April 5, as he takes on Ruotolo for the welterweight submission grappling championship. The two will face off in the opening world title match at ONE Fight Night 21: Eersel vs. Nicolas, available for viewing on Prime Video.

While Michell will remain watchful on all fronts during the 10-minute war, he is especially determined to safeguard his neck at any cost.

Tye Ruotolo has a history of effectively using his signature D’Arce choke to force opponents to submit in previous matches.

Michell will not allow the 21-year-old BJJ savant to put him in a headlock and execute his go-to submission, as far as he is concerned.

During his pre-event interview, the individual from Adelaide, who is 25 years old, informed CountFilms TV:

“My strategy to take him down is to wrestle. I have a few things I’ve been working on. He’s dangerous with the front headlock position, so you don’t want to put yourself in those vulnerable positions. I have a few things to stay out of danger but also get my shots off and put him down.”

View the complete interview:

Being cautious of Tye Ruotolo’s D’Arce choke is a smart decision. Michell certainly doesn’t want to end up in the same situation as Garry Tonon, who fell victim to that very same move.

Tye Ruotolo ready to tackle any challenge

In the meantime, Ruotolo, the champion, will not actively seek out the D’Arce submission, as he already possesses a vast array of submission techniques in his impressive arsenal.

When inquired about his preferred method of finishing Michell, the Atos stud stated that he foresees executing a graceful back-take sequence followed by a blood choke of some sort.

Tye Ruotolo revealed to ONE:

“I think I’m gonna get on his back and choke him, or guillotine. I don’t really know how I’m going to submit him, I just have faith that I’m gonna submit him. Whichever way it happens, I’ll take.”

ONE Fight Night 21 will be broadcasted live from the renowned Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. The entire event will be available for free during US primetime exclusively for Prime Video members in North America.