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Denice “The Fairtex Menace” Zamboanga’s undefeated record will be on the line this Friday, 6 December at ONE: MARK OF GREATNESS.
The Filipina is ready to make her ONE Championship debut opposite Malaysian hometown hero, Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan, when the two lock horns at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur.
Zamboanga has long dreamed of competing in ONE Championship. Now that she’s here, the 22-year old wants to dedicate her first bout to the men and women behind her current success.
“I am truly honored to be an athlete of the biggest organization in the world, ONE Championship,” Zamboanga said.
“That is why I will not disappoint all the people who helped me behind this journey.”
Zamboanga was influenced by her brother Drex to take up martial arts. With the support of her family and her faith, she was able to find success in her career.
“I started doing martial arts because of my brother,” she said.
“He inspired me a lot. He taught me how to become strong physically and spiritually. God and my family really inspired me. I could not do this sport without them.”
The Filipina’s first test will challenge her skills as a martial artist. Wushu World Champion and MIMMA Women’s Champion Radzuan holds victories over Puja Tomar, Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol, Jenny Huan, and Jomary Torres. She’s one of the most highly-regarded athletes competing in ONE’s atomweight division.
Zamboanga knows exactly who she’s up against.
“I am working very hard for this fight because I know I have a very tough opponent and it is not an easy debut fight for me,” Zamboanga said.
“She is very tough, strong and well-rounded. She is a champion in Muay Thai, wushu and a purple belt in jiu-jitsu, but I think my wrestling is better.”
Zamboanga understands that the odds will be stacked against her once she steps inside the Axiata Arena, which will no doubt host a pro-Malaysian crowd. Despite this, Zamboanga believes her skills and preparations will give honor to the Philippines.
“I am fighting in my opponent’s country so I know that all the crowd will be cheering for her, but that does not matter,” Zamboanga said.
“As long as I do my best to make my country proud (that is all that matters).”
