Kade Ruotolo grateful to scrap with formidable opponent Francisco Lo: “This is my toughest opponent in ONE”

Despite facing stiff competition in the world’s largest martial arts organization, Kade Ruotolo of the United States has proven himself as the undisputed ONE lightweight submission grappling world champion. However, the 21-year-old phenom acknowledges that his upcoming opponent will be his most challenging yet as he looks to defend his ONE Championship gold.

Ruotolo is scheduled to take on 23-year-old Brazilian sensation ‘Chico’ Francisco Lo in a 180-pound catchweight submission grappling bout at ONE Fight Night 21: Eersel vs. Nicolas, which will be available to watch on Prime Video.

The event will be aired live from the renowned Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, April 5th.

During a recent interview with the South China Morning Post, Ruotolo acknowledged that Lo would probably be his toughest challenge yet in ONE Championship.

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion stated:

“I think this is probably my toughest opponent in ONE Championship for both of us. Every time we step back out on the ONE Championship platform, it tends to get harder and harder and harder, which is what we’re asking for and is what we want.”

Since his ONE debut in May 2022, Ruotolo has been dominating with a five-fight winning streak.

Currently, Lo is making his first appearance in a promotional setting, proudly representing the prestigious CheckMat team. He holds the impressive titles of IBJJF Pan American No-Gi champion and American National Champion.

Viewers in both the United States and Canada have the opportunity to watch ONE Fight Night 21: Eersel vs. Nicolas live and at no cost with a valid Amazon Prime Video subscription.

Kade Ruotolo prepared for Francisco Lo’s unpredictable attacks

Kade Ruotolo simply desires a willing opponent in his fights. He hopes for someone who will not hesitate to engage in a battle with him.

The 21-year-old discussed Lo and expressed to SCMP MMA his enthusiasm for grappling with the talented Brazilian, describing the opportunity as a thrilling one. Ruotolo stated:

“I’m super excited especially because of the matchup. I know Francisco is an exciting matchup. He throws, you know, I’ve been saying it a lot, a question mark. He throws kind of a caution to the wind and throws out crazy submissions like jumping triangles, flying triangles, foot locks. Kind of attacks all parts of the body. So it will be an exciting matchup for sure.”