Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion Bianca “Bia” Basilio has officially signed with LFA to begin her mixed martial arts career, bringing one of grappling’s most decorated résumés to the MMA cage.
The announcement marks a significant addition to LFA’s roster, as Basilio arrives with credentials that few competitors can match. The Brazilian grappler is a two-time IBJJF Black Belt World Champion and an ADCC Champion, having claimed world titles at every belt level throughout her career. Her transition from the mats to the cage represents a natural progression for an athlete who has already conquered the highest levels of submission grappling.
“Congratulations to top BJJ superstar Bia Basílio on officially signing with LFA to make her #MMADebut,”
LFA announced on social media.
“A 2x IBJJF Black Belt World Champion, ADCC Champion, and World Champion at every belt level, Bia brings an elite résumé to the LFA roster. We’re excited to have you on board.”
Basilio’s decision to join LFA comes during a transitional period for the promotion. Long regarded as one of the premier developmental organizations in MMA, LFA is currently seeking a new broadcast home after its partnership with UFC FightPass concluded at the end of 2025.
Despite early speculation suggesting uncertainty around the promotion’s future, LFA CEO Ed Soares has expressed confidence about the organization’s direction. Speaking with MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, Soares clarified that the separation from UFC was a mutual business decision rather than a cancellation.
According to Helwani’s reporting, the UFC sought to change the terms of its arrangement, requesting ownership of all content that appears on the platform. Soares declined to relinquish those rights, leading LFA to explore alternative distribution options. The promotion has been in discussions with potential new partners for several months and has multiple events scheduled through March 2025.
For Basilio, the timing of her entry into professional MMA coincides with this period of transition. While LFA has historically served as a proven pathway to the UFC, with many former champions advancing to the sport’s premier organization, the landscape may be shifting as the promotion establishes its independence from the Fight Pass platform.
The 141 lbs (64 kg) competitor most recently appeared in gi competition just two months ago, placing fourth in The Crown tournament. Now she prepares to test her world-class grappling skills in the unpredictable environment of mixed martial arts, where her extensive ground game will face new challenges from strikers and wrestlers.
