Filipina atomweight Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga looks for a debut to remember as she takes her act in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
Zamboanga battles the exciting Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan in a three-round atomweight affair at ONE: MARK OF GREATNESS at the Axiata Arena in Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia on 6 December.
Carrying an immaculate record of 5-0, Zamboanga is out to prove that she can translate her success inside the Circle, and with less than three weeks to go before her much-awaited debut, the Filipina standout just could not wait.
“[I am] really grateful to be part of the best organization in the world. I’m very excited to represent my own country. This is a big opportunity for me, fighting against a top contender in my division especially [in] my debut fight,” Zamboanga said.
“I’m working very hard for this fight. I want to start my ONE Championship journey with a win.”
Coming from a family of martial artists, Zamboanga promises to bring that pedigree when she takes her act in The Home Of Martial Arts, and after stopping three of her first five foes – the excitement for her debut is certainly warranted.
But she knows that it would not be an easy transition to ONE, particularly with the level of athletes competing in the organization.
“I’m focusing on my striking and wrestling because I know she’s really good at striking,” Zamboanga said.
“I’ve been working triple time during training sessions and I am more confident in my game.”
The woman standing in her path would not be an easy conquest though, with Radzuan being a former Wushu World Champion and MIMMA Women’s Champion.
The 20-year-old Johor Bahru City native is also regarded by many as the future of women’s martial arts in Malaysia.
“She’s well rounded so I need to be careful with her striking and ground game as well. I don’t see any weaknesses from her except for her wrestling. I guess my wrestling is better than her,” Zamboanga stated.
“I know that she’s a strong fighter and that she’s also hungry to end [the year] with a win but I will do everything so I can keep up with whatever she’ll throw in our fight.”
While wary of Radzuan’s skill, Zamboanga remains confident that she can take on the hometown hero and leave a lasting impression.
“I don’t have any plans of wasting this magnificent opportunity ONE Championship has given me. This match is for everyone who believes in me. I dedicate this to God, Family, Friends, and supporters,” Zamboanga said.
“Winning against Radzuan is my number one goal right now. It’s also very important for me to retain my undefeated record.”
Fight Game Asia 