When BJJ Meets Sambo – Kade Ruotolo vs. Uali Kurzhev Showdown

The electrifying showdown between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prodigy Kade Ruotolo and Russian Sambo ace Uali Kurzhev remains a testament to what happens when two distinct grappling worlds collide. Competing under the ONE Championship banner, Ruotolo’s stunning display against Kurzhev at ONE on Prime Video 3 in 2022 marked a pivotal moment in his budding career. Known for his dynamic submissions and fearless approach, Ruotolo entered the contest with high expectations following his meteoric rise through the BJJ ranks.

Kurzhev, boasting a sterling reputation in Sambo circles, aimed to neutralize Ruotolo’s fluid guard game with rapid positional control and explosive takedowns. Early on, he succeeded in putting pressure on the young star, forcing Ruotolo to remain vigilant in his defense. However, once Ruotolo found his rhythm, the match turned into a masterclass of technical BJJ wizardry. Slick transitions and relentless attacks exemplified Ruotolo’s commitment to secure a statement victory over his seasoned opponent.

This clash not only highlighted Ruotolo’s championship potential but also shined a spotlight on the intensity of cross-disciplinary matchups. The buzz surrounding the bout carried over into Ruotolo’s upcoming MMA journey, where he’s now set to face Argentinian standout Nicolas Vigna at ONE 171: Qatar. Fans are eager to see whether the same creativity and submission prowess he showcased against Kurzhev will translate seamlessly into the cage.

As BJJ and Sambo continue to evolve on the global stage, this encounter underscored the thrills and unpredictability that ensue when two specialized art forms collide. With Ruotolo cementing his name among the sport’s elite, his battle against Kurzhev stands as a stirring chapter in ONE Championship’s ever-growing legacy of world-class competition.