Tammi Musumeci, 19,  is one of the biggest up and coming black belts in female Jiu-jitsu at the moment. She trains under Tagarella at American Top Team, and Manny Soares at Jaco training center in Florida. In the past, she won the worlds at each belt and this year, she won the Pan at black belt.

On Sunday, Tammi fought the final of the featherweight division of the worlds against the multiple world champion Michelle Nicolini. She was leading on points when she got caught in a nasty armlock that dislocated her arm, but she didn’t tap and continued eventually losing the match on points. She received a standing ovation from the crowd.

On her facebook, she made a statement:

” Hello guys, I would first like to thank everyone for the positive thoughts and concerns it really means alot! My arm thank God is not broken but just dislocated and was put back into place last night at the ER. I am so thankful for this! Next, I would just like to say how honored I was to fight at the highest level of Black Belt at the most prestigious BJJ tournament! I won my first fight 9-0 and my second by back choke! I was so amazed and proud to make it to the final day and able to test my skills against one of the best women competitors!”

About the match:

In the fight my mindset was to just put on my best performance as it always is and I could proudly say that I did! At about 40 secs left in the match I was up 6-4 but just received a stalling call so I worked hard to keep fighting so I could gain my first black belt world title! When I started to work I got caught in a nasty arm lock! So much adrenaline and emotions running through me at the time I honestly felt no pain and just stayed focused on my goal (which I suddenly regretted ask anyone the first thing I said when brought to the medics was why the hell didnt I tap?). I tried to fight back but my arm just didnt move but I still used everything in my will to fight and for that I can be proud! I dont suggest anyone do this I will never again for sure but sometimes we make mistakes that turn out to be learning experiences when looking back! Overall I felt my best this tournament amd gave it my all even though not getting the desired outcome which is the best experience of all!

Even though I hurt my arm and got 2nd place I still consider this weekend to be one of the best experiences of my life and I know I will be back stronger!!!”

 

Check the video of her fight: