Ayaka Miura calls Filipina star Denice Zamboanga a “complete all-rounder” ahead of ONE Championship title fight

Denice Zamboanga made history in January 2025 when she became the first Filipina to win a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) world title by defeating Alyona Rassohyna for the ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight MMA World Championship at ONE Fight Night 27.

After etching her name in the record books, Zamboanga is set to defend her belt for the first time when she faces top contender Ayaka “Zombie” Miura of Japan at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Miura praised Zamboanga’s growth in recent years, acknowledging that the Filipina’s hard work in developing new skills during training has paid off.

“At first, I thought she was mainly a grappler, but in recent fights, her striking has really improved. Now I see her as a complete all-rounder. She also looks physically very strong. I believe Zamboanga will come in with a solid ground defense strategy and try to turn it into a striking battle. Whether it’s on the feet or on the ground—even if the fight gets messy—I will do whatever it takes to win,” Miura said in a media interaction.

While the Filipina star is the toast of the town, she will face a dangerous challenge in Miura, who is widely respected in the promotion for her submission skills. Since moving to the atomweight division, the 34-year-old has gone on a spectacular run, winning five straight fights—four of them by submission.

“Zombie” is coming for GOLD 👑 Can Ayaka Miura dethrone atomweight MMA queen Denice Zamboanga at ONE 173 in Tokyo? 🇯🇵 @ayk917m #ONE173 | Nov 16
Get your tickets now 👉 Link in bio pic.twitter.com/6bJH1Gb46E

— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) July 25, 2025

Nicknamed “The Zombie,” Miura believes it is a sign that now is her time to win the ONE Championship, especially since the bout will take place in Japan.

“I’m truly happy to be able to fight in a world title match here in Japan, where I was born and raised—and especially grateful for the surprise announcement from CEO Chatri. I believe there is meaning behind being given this opportunity. I will become the first Japanese woman to win a ONE Championship belt, and I will do it right here in Japan.

“I used to think the location didn’t matter, but now that I’ve been given this chance in Japan, I truly feel this is the moment I’m meant to take the belt,” she concluded.

It will be intriguing to see whether Miura can make the most of her home advantage. Zamboanga, however, recently confirmed that despite the bout taking place in her opponent’s backyard, she remains unconcerned and unfazed by the location, confident of returning to the Philippines with her title intact.

ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong also confirmed that the promotion is eager to return to the United States, which remains a high-priority market. It will be interesting to see whether it’s Miura or Zamboanga who heads to the U.S. for a potential title defense in the near future.

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