Megumi Fuji Makes USA TV Debut For Bellator

Megumi Fujii, considered by many to be the world’s top female fighter, will make her national TV debut on Thursday during Bellator 21 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The judo and jiu-jitsu black belt will take on Sarah Schneider (9-3) in the hopes of improving her perfect pro record to 20-0. Sixteen of Fujii’s wins have come by way of submission. Her inazuma toe hold is so dangerous it has been dubbed the “Megulock.”

The 36-year-old Fujii is also one of four confirmed participants in Bellator’s Season 3 Women’s Tournament. She joins 11-1 Rosi Sexton, the world’s No. 1-ranked 125 lbs. female fighter, Seattle submission artist Lisa Ward (12-5) and 7-0 Jessica Pene. The tournament kicks off in August.

“With our Season 3 Women’s Tournament now just three months away, this fight between Megumi Fujii and Sarah Schneider on Thursday gives U.S. MMA fans their first opportunity to see the woman many believe is the best female fighter in the world,” Bellator founder and CEO Bjorn Rebney said. “This fight will be a tough test as she prepares for an extremely strong tournament field. As a fan, I can’t wait to watch on Thursday and in August.”

Fuji said through her translator that she is ecstatic to be fighting under the Bellator banner.

“Bellator is a great organization and they have some excellent competition,” she said. “I’m looking to stick to my game plan, get submissions and win the tournament. That’s my only goal.”