Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga is embracing the role of being her division’s face after she was named the undisputed ONE Atomweight MMA World Champion as Stamp Fairtex relinquished her belt while still dealing with her knee injury.
It’s not the ideal way for Zamboanga to win the belt, especially as she was expecting a showdown with her friend and former training partner in the now-postponed ONE 173: Denver in August, but she’s grateful to finally be recognized as the top fighter in this division without any reservations.
“God’s timing is always perfect. I may not have envisioned becoming champion this way, but I trust his plan,” Zamboanga said.
“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.
“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.”
Stamp’s injury and the eventual cancellation of the fight prompted the promotion to postpone the ONE 173: Denver event until next year, June 26, 2026, ending Zamboanga’s hopes to compete in the United States for the first time.
But given that she’s now the undisputed champion, the trade-off isn’t bad for Zamboanga.
While she won’t be battling Stamp anytime soon, Zamboanga is ready to begin her reign and defend her title wherever, whenever.
“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,” she said. “Let’s go!”
