Kade Ruotolo-Tommy Langaker II Booked For World Title Rematch At ONE 165 In Tokyo

Kade Ruotolo is officially set to defend his ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Title at ONE 165: Rodtang vs. Takeru. 

On January 28, the American BJJ prodigy will rematch Norwegian star Tommy Langaker on a stacked card at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

The pair first met at ONE Fight Night 11 back in June, as Langaker challenged for Ruotolo’s gold. The result was one of the most entertaining submission grappling matchups of 2023. 

The Norwegian posed an early threat with his tricky guard and a heel hook attempt, but the defending king fired back with leg lock attempts of his own, as well as his relentless passing game. 

The Atos representative ultimately got the nod by unanimous decision, pushing his ONE slate to 4-0 and his unbeaten streak to 19 consecutive wins overall. 

However, Ruotolo has not competed since then.

The 20-year-old phenom has been building his new gym in Costa Rica, as well as preparing for his mixed martial arts debut, so he’s been less active on the competition mats. 

Of course, he’s still been keeping sharp alongside his twin brother, reigning ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion Tye Ruotolo, who competed in August and November, but his extended layoff could present an opportunity for Langaker.

While Ruotolo has been out, his 29-year-old rival has been in the best form of his career.  

Langaker has posted a 14-1 record since that loss, including 11 straight wins that led him to IBJJF No Gi European and World Titles.  

The Wulfing Academy representative knows Ruotolo’s game well after their first battle went the distance, and he’s riding an incredible wave of momentum as he goes for the biggest World Title in the sport once again.

If the first match was any indication, their second meeting will be another thriller between two of the sport’s current pound-for-pound best. 

ONE 165 marks the promotion’s return to Japan with a colossal card headlined by Rodtang Jitmuangnon vs. Takeru Segawa in a flyweight kickboxing super-fight.