NOW-undisputed ONE Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice "The Menace" Zamboanga promises to represent ONE Championship as she moved up the divisional hierarchy over the weekend.
Former divisional ruler Stamp Fairtex agreed to relinquish her belt after re-injuring her knee while preparing for her supposed unification bout with Zamboanga at ONE 173: Denver on August 2.
With Stamp out, Zamboanga's U.S. debut will have to wait as the promotion decided to postpone its return to the U.S. this year, instead marking June 26, 2026, as ONE's official return West.
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"God's timing is always perfect. I may not have envisioned becoming champion this way, but I trust his plan," Zamboanga said.
Whether her first official defense comes in the U.S. or not, Zamboanga promises to be at her best — especially with the lineage of dominant atomweight champions that came before her, starting with Angela Lee and Stamp Fairtex.
"To ONE Championship—I'm ready to defend this belt anytime and anywhere, whether it's in the States, other parts of Asia, or right in my very own country, the Philippines. Let's go!" she said.
Her rise to undisputed status is bittersweet as it came at the expense of her friend and former training partner who's been out for more than a year now.
Still, the Filipina trusts the Thai fighter will heal up well and bounce back stronger from this setback.
"Stamp is an incredible athlete, and I'm praying for her healing and strength. I've looked up to her as both a competitor and a sister in this sport, and I know she'll come back stronger," Zamboanga said.
"As for me, I'm ready to carry this belt with honor, fight with purpose, and glorify him in every step. This title is more than just a belt—it's a reminder that with faith, hard work, and the right people by your side, nothing is impossible. All glory to God."
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