Kade Ruotolo, a top grappler, criticizes the rampant use of performance-enhancing drugs in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, emphasizing the health risks and ethical concerns while maintaining pride in his natural approach to the sport.
Kade Ruotolo, undeniably one of the top grapplers globally, remains steadfast in his belief that success is sweeter when achieved naturally. Despite wins or losses, the 22-year-old holds his head high, knowing he’s done it the right way.
Lately, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community has been buzzing about performance-enhancing drugs. The debate heated up after a verbal clash between Mikey Musumeci and Gordon Ryan. Musumeci, now a UFC-signed grappler, has vocally criticized the rampant steroid use in the sport.
Ryan, often in the spotlight for his openness about using steroids, fired back. He points out that most grappling competitions lack rules against such substances, so technically, he’s not breaking any laws.
“There are countless arguments to justify it,” Ruotolo shared with MMA Fighting about steroid use in jiu-jitsu. “But in almost every other real sport, it’s illegal.”
He believes the issue runs deeper than just drug use. “People don’t realize the influence they’re having on younger generations. It’s alarming to see teenagers as young as 14 or 15 taking steroids. It’s unhealthy.”
Ruotolo is gearing up for his MMA return at ONE 171 in Qatar. He’s always been vocal against steroids, proud that he’s never taken shortcuts in his career.
His criticism of Ryan’s drug use hasn’t come without backlash. “I used to talk about it a lot,” Ruotolo admitted. “But now I’m stepping back a bit because of the negative reactions.”
Ruotolo and his brother Tye have decided to stick to their natural methods. “We’re going to do things our way,” he said.
While Ruotolo acknowledges the edge steroids might give Ryan, he also sees their detrimental effects on health. Ryan’s frequent health issues have kept him from competing regularly.
“Gordon competes maybe once a year due to health problems,” Ruotolo noted. “He can’t fight because of these issues.”
Ruotolo observes Ryan’s struggles with concern. “You can only be healthy for one camp every year or two,” he remarked. “It’s not how the body should be treated.”
He compares Ryan’s physical state to Musumeci’s and sees a stark difference despite them being the same age.
Ruotolo knows Ryan isn’t alone in using steroids; he’s faced many opponents who do the same.
Despite this disadvantage, Ruotolo continues to find ways to win naturally. However, it’s frustrating knowing others might not play by the same rules.
“Everyone can choose their path,” Ruotolo said with a shrug. But it’s hard when you know your opponent might not be putting in the same effort naturally.
He feels people misunderstand his style as “scrambly,” but it’s all about adapting to strength disparities without relying on drugs.
No matter how much gym time he puts in, dealing with stronger opponents isn’t an exact science.
“When you’re technical and face someone on steroids, catching up is tough,” Ruotolo explained. “You must work on technique and find ways around their strength.”
His philosophy? Be like water — adaptable and fluid.
Ruotolo disagrees with steroid use but knows he can’t control others’ choices. What he can control is his integrity and pride in earning victories cleanly.
“Every win is ours without doubt or regret,” Ruotolo concluded confidently. “I could never live questioning if my success was truly mine.”