Bellator 268’s Sumiko Inaba Plans to Keep Working Her Way to the Top

Phoenix, AZ — Improving her professional record to 3-0 on Saturday at Bellator 268 was Hawaii’s Sumiko Inaba.

“Lady Samurai” was up against a fellow undefeated fighter in Randi Field, and earned the arm-triangle submission to secure her third finish in as many fights. Afterward, she let out the sort of scream that can only come with the rush of emotion a fight can bring.

“There was a lot going into this camp. Just things that, as usual, sometimes don’t go as planned,” Inaba told media outlets including Cageside Press backstage at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. “But that’s okay, this is all what it’s [about], it’s worth it for that excitement, that energy, that scream that I can get out after a win. It’s all worth it.”

Seeing Sumiko outside of the cage and in, it’s almost like watching the flip of a switch. From a good natured, sweet girl to an absolute killer. “I’m Sumiko now, and Lady Samurai in the cage, for sure,” she agreed.

The plan moving forward, she later told the media, is to “just keep going, keep getting these wins. Keep making my way to the top.” Inaba was also extremely positive about her experience in Bellator, which has been her home for all three of her professional fights. “I can’t be more thankful to do it here at Bellator, such a great platform. All the love and support, everybody here is amazing, gosh I can’t say [enough], only good things about everything I experienced.”

Coming off what is the biggest win of her career to date, “Lady Samurai” is hoping to get back to work soon. “ASAP man. I’m a little dinged up, bruised, she gave me some good kicks too, she landed some stuff. But ASAP. I’m good. I’m ready to go again.”

Watch the full Bellator 268 post-fight press conference with Sumiko Inaba above. More coverage from the event can be found below.