LFA signs Tabatha Ricci, judo black belt and Mackenzie Dern training partner

Undefeated newcomer Tabatha Ricci is LFA bound after the promotion signed her to a multi-fight contract.

Ricci, a longtime training partner of UFC standout Mackenzie Dern, stands at 2-0 as a professional and is targeted to make her debut in July at one of four events planned for South Dakota, a person from the promotion confirmed to MMA Fighting.

Ricci is a Brazilian brown belt and judo black belt. The 25-year-old Brazilian is affiliated with the Paragon Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu team and trains in Southern California at a variety of gyms including Black House.

A feeder league for the UFC, LFA returns to live event promotion in July and will put a title up for grabs at each event, which are hosted at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls.