Historic Reign Begins: Denice Zamboanga faces Ayaka Miura in first ONE MMA title defense

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.

Despite the bout taking place in her opponent’s backyard, the 28-year-old remains unconcerned and unfazed by the location, as she is confident of returning to the Philippines with her title intact. Zamboanga believes that representing her country and flag is the highest honor, and it is her calling to do so on the biggest stage—regardless of location.

“I know that fighting in Japan, Ayaka’s home, might bring added pressure. But as a proud Filipina, I carry the strength, dedication, and heart of every Filipino with me. We may be stepping into her territory, but our spirit and determination are built for any battleground,” Zamboanga said in a press conference.

The Quezon City native has previously reiterated her desire to bring ONE Championship back to the Philippines, hoping Filipino fans can witness her fight live at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Filipina MMA champion Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga is set to make the first defense of her ONE atomweight world title against Japanese contender Ayaka “Zombie” Miura on November 16 at ONE 173, to be held at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. pic.twitter.com/GbgBDrYBMS

— Fastbreak (@fastbreaknewsph) July 25, 2025

Notably, the 28-year-old competed in the last live ONE Championship event held in the Philippines, where she defeated Lin Heqin at ONE Fight Night 5 in December 2022. More than two years later, Zamboanga remains eager to face Stamp Fairtex in a unification bout on home soil.

Zamboanga began training in karate at her brother’s urging to learn self-defense, but she quickly fell in love with the sport while balancing her university studies and work. After going undefeated at 5–0, with four finishes in regional Philippine promotions, she earned the opportunity to represent her country in ONE Championship.

She currently holds a 7–2 professional record, with one TKO victory, and is undefeated in her last four ONE Championship fights.

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 intriguing to see whether Zamboanga returns to the U.S. for a potential title defense in the near future.

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