Tye Ruotolo Submits Adrian Lee at ONE Fight Night 35 in Stunning MMA Debut
Tye Ruotolo wasted no time proving that his grappling dominance translates perfectly into MMA. At ONE Fight Night 35: Buntan vs. Hemetsberger, the 22-year-old California native scored a second-round rear-naked choke victory over previously unbeaten Adrian Lee. The submission came at 4:14 of round two, capping off an impressive debut that also earned him a $50,000 performance bonus from ONE Championship.
A New Chapter for Ruotolo
Best known as ONE’s Welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion, Ruotolo showed he’s far more than a one-trick pony. Against Lee, he surprised fans with sharp stand-up exchanges before forcing the action to the canvas. Once there, his world-class jiu-jitsu proved unstoppable. Securing back control, Ruotolo locked in a rear-naked choke with textbook precision.
Kade Ruotolo’s Impact
Tye credited his twin brother, Kade Ruotolo, for pushing him throughout training camp. Kade, already a submission grappling champion and experienced in MMA, provided crucial advice that helped Tye adapt his ground game for cage fighting. Their sibling rivalry raised the intensity in the gym, forcing Tye to level up his striking and overall preparation.
“This isn’t just another day in the office,” Tye said afterward. “It’s a whole new experience for me. To get the finish, stay healthy, and come out with a win—I’m just super grateful.”
You can check all the highlights and drama from Ruotolo vs Lee fight right here too.
What Comes Next?
With this debut win, Ruotolo immediately becomes one of the most intriguing prospects in ONE’s lightweight division. His mix of elite grappling, fast-improving striking, and relentless pressure make him a serious threat for future contenders.
Full Results – ONE Fight Night 35: Buntan vs. Hemetsberger
Strawweight Muay Thai World Championship
Stella Hemetsberger def. Jackie Buntan via unanimous decision
Featherweight Muay Thai
Shadow Singha Mawynn def. Bampara Kouyate via TKO (R2, 1:20)
Featherweight MMA
Akbar Abdullaev def. Ibragim Dauev via TKO (R3, 3:49) (Fight: Abdullaev vs. Dauev)
Bantamweight Muay Thai
Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon def. Dmitrii Kovtun via TKO (R2, 2:01)
Lightweight MMA
Tye Ruotolo def. Adrian Lee via submission (rear-naked choke, R2, 4:14) (Fight: Ruotolo vs. Lee)
Flyweight Muay Thai
Johan Ghazali def. Zakaria El Jamari via TKO (R1, 2:10)
Atomweight MMA
Natalie Salcedo def. Macarena Aragon via submission (armbar, R1, 2:42) (Fight: Salcedo vs. Aragon)
Flyweight Kickboxing
Hyu def. Jordan Estupinan via TKO (R3, 1:45)
Check here for all important & wild moments from ONE Fight Night 35.
FAQs About Tye Ruotolo’s MMA Debut
Who did Tye Ruotolo fight in his MMA debut?
Tye Ruotolo faced Adrian Lee at ONE Fight Night 35 in Bangkok.
How did Tye Ruotolo win?
He won via rear-naked choke submission at 4:14 of the second round.
Did Tye Ruotolo earn a bonus?
Yes, Ruotolo earned a $50,000 performance bonus for his finish.
Is Kade Ruotolo also in MMA?
Yes, his twin brother Kade Ruotolo has already competed in MMA and helped prepare Tye for his debut.
