Denice Zamboanga finally has ONE Championship gold over her shoulder. At ONE Fight Night 27, “The Menace” secured the ONE Interim Atomweight MMA World Title with a second-round TKO of Alyona Rassohyna. It was an emotional moment for the Filipina, who still had trouble believing it was real after the event had concluded.
“I’m very speechless. Until now, I couldn’t get over that I took the belt, that I’m the champion. That is sinking in my head right now,” Denice Zamboanga told ONE.
Denice Zamboanga Impresses in Championship Victory
Denice Zamboanga showed her improved standup in the first round with crisp attacks. In the second, she got to defend against the Ukrainian’s grappling and take top position. From the top, Zamboanga delivered heavy ground and pound until the match was stopped, making it her most special performance to date.
History made 👑
Watch the full ONE Fight Night 27 event replay:
🇺🇸🇨🇦 on Prime 👉 https://t.co/wQjdyqG3Qm
🌍 on https://t.co/eBUfsOmxDL (geo-restrictions may apply) pic.twitter.com/UzTqCLg7eR— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) January 12, 2025
“I guess yes because I had never finished my opponent by TKO while ranked and active, like the ranked fighters in our division,” the new interim atomweight queen replied.
Denice Zamboanga has been developing her overall game in preparation for the atomweight elite. She understands that each woman has specific strengths and weaknesses, and she wants to exploit her advantages in any area. It was hard work that paid off in Bangkok, as “The Menace” got to show off her improvements on a global platform.
“Now, for this fight, I’m more comfortable with my striking and also with my top game and also my grappling skills,” the Filipina stated.
Denice Zamboanga Has Eyes Set on Fight With Fairtex for Permanent Title
The atomweight title unification seems set, but Stamp Fairtex is still recovering from injury. While Zamboanga could defend the interim crown if there is a setback, the 28-year-old is not jumping to get back in the ring just yet. She is fine sitting and waiting for the Thai superstar to be healthy so she can finally get the coveted match she wants.
“Definitely Stamp. I’ll wait for her,” Zamboanga flatly said.
The victory also netted “The Menace” a $50,000 performance bonus. Happy to secure a little extra cash along with the gold, Zamboanga is ready to treat herself when she returns home. The first thing the Filipina wants is a brand-new car.
“I think I’m gonna get my car because I have wanted to get one since last year. But now I got the bonus, I can get my own car. I have my motorcycle already,” Denice Zamboanga commented.
Did you miss any of the exciting action? ONE Fight Night 27 can be re-lived on demand via Prime Video. The action took place inside Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, January 10.
