Tye Ruotolo vs Dante Leon: Four Keys to Victory at ONE Fight Night 31
Tye Ruotolo and Dante Leon will face each other at ONE Fight Night 31: Kongthoranee vs Nong-O II in one of the biggest submission grappling matchups in recent history.
Ruotolo defends his ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling world title against Leon in the co-main event in the morning hours of Saturday, May 3 inside Bangkok’s iconic LumpineeStadium.
Before the two BJJ black belt stars meet in the ring, we look at four keys to victory in the big matchup.
1. Ruotolo’s Takedowns
Ruotolo has found enormous success with his high-pressure submission strategy, but against Leon he must work hard to win the wrestling exchanges on the feet and secure the top position where he is most dangerous, creating opportunities for submissions.
2. Leon Dictating the Pace
A well-rounded world-class grappler, Leon must rely on his precise technique and strength to slow the pace and methodically work toward a submission while forcing his opponent on the defensive.
3. Ruotolo’s Expert Front Headlocks
The American titleholder would do well to employ his dynamic front headlock from the opening bell as he is submission grappling’s top expert at locking in the D’Arce, guillotine, and anaconda chokes that could force his opponent to tap.
4. Leon’s Backtakes
Leon’s clearest path to victory is taking the welterweight king’s back where he is an expert finisher. The 29-year-old Canadian will have to secure the back position just as he did against fellow BJJ black belt Bruno Pucci whom he finished in just two minutes.
ONE Fight Night 31 kicks off at 4:00 AM Mecca on Saturday, May 3 and will be broadcast live via beIN SPORTS and watch.onefc.com.
