Back in September, Kade Ruotolo got a gold medal at the 2022 ADCC and became the youngest-ever ADCC champion in the process. To crown his glory, he won his division by submitting everyone in his path. In short, it was a display of utter dominance from start to finish.
Speaking on the event, he claimed that he believed only he, his brother (Tye Ruotolo), Roberto Jimenez, and AJ Agazarm competed as natural athletes. In other words, Kade claimed that the vast majority of ADCC competitors were using PEDs or steroids whilst competing.
Looking at the muscular, and vascular nature of many of their bodies – this may have been the case as well. Of course, this is pure speculation and only the athletes will know deep down if Kade was actually telling the truth.
Whilst being interviewed during the ADCC weekend, he claimed, “Team Natty. Exactly. Pretty sure me, my brother and him (Roberto Jimenez), and AJ (Agazarm) are the only natty guys in this thing. So, Team Natty. Let’s go.” Interestingly, in claiming this – Ruotolo left off a number of his ATOS team mates from his ‘natty’ list, including the likes of Kaynan Duarte, Andre Galvao, Hulk Barbosa, and others.
Historically, ADCC has never drug tested its athletes so it seems as though Kade may have a point. If true, then it would make his title run even more impressive if he was a natural competitor going against those using PEDs at the time.
