THERE was nothing else for Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga to do other than to keep her emotions in check after another setback to her world title aspirations.
With ONE Atomweight MMA world champion Stamp Fairtex tearing her ACL with less than three weeks to go until their previously scheduled bout at ONE 167, Zamboanga now welcomes Noelle “Lil Monkey” Grandjean in the promotion’s return to the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand this Friday.
As heartbreaking as it is for Zamboanga to have to wait for another title shot, the 26-year-old is leaning on her excellent support system to avoid being affected by yet another championship bout cancellation.
READ: Denice Zamboanga sees replacement fight as a step closer to title shot
“Managing emotions in this situation is crucial. I stay focused by reminding myself of my goals and the hard work I've put in,” she said.
“Meditation and visualization techniques help me stay calm and centered. I trust my training and my team to guide me through any unexpected changes.”
Quick change
Of course, Zamboanga could only admit that a change in opponent this close to fight night threw her off.
Once preparing for a striker like Stamp, she now has to deal with the throws and submissions of Grandjean – a fighter who’s adopted her judo style for the world of MMA.
“It's definitely challenging to face a different opponent so close to the fight, but I'm focused and ready,” she said.
“My mentality is to adapt and overcome. Every fight is an opportunity to show my skills and resilience, regardless of who is standing across from me.”
ONE world title fight or not, Zamboanga will always compete with a chip on her shoulder, and she plans to prove it against the upset-conscious Grandjean, who will be targeting the biggest win of her career in this match.
“I'm incredibly motivated. This is my chance to prove that I'm ready for a title shot, regardless of the opponent,” she said.
“Every fight is a step towards my ultimate goal, and I'm determined to show that I deserve to be in contention for the belt. My motivation is higher than ever, and I'm ready to give it my all in the cage.”
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