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It was a quick and flawless victory for Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga, the 23-year-old Philippine top atomic weight.
The undefeated top contender put together an inspiring performance, finishing off her opponent “Dream Girl” Watsapinya Kaewkhong of Thailand just over a minute in the first round of their clash at ONE: A NEW BREED on August 28.
After establishing his dominance in punching exchanges early on, Zamboanga managed a quick takedown and then secured lateral control. From there, he worked to start up an Americana, and the tap came soon after.
Looking back on his performance, Zamboanga gave his play a bit of credit but outplayed his opponent. Ultimately, “The Menace” explained that he felt he had no choice but to win this fight, to keep his dream of facing reigning ONE Women’s atomweight world champion Angela Lee alive.
“She (Watsapinya) had good control, but I think I was able to dominate her. Of course, I couldn’t afford to lose that fight. My goal was to get the win and nothing else,” Zamboanga said.
“I didn’t expect to subdue her so easily, by Americana no less. I wanted to hit her, that’s what I was planning to do. But the submission was there, so I took a chance and got the win. That’s the important thing.”
Zamboanga is the number one contender for Lee’s atomweight belt. After impressive victories over top-level opponent Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan and former ONE world title challenger Mei “VV” Yamaguchi, the 23-year-old effectively earned a shot at the queen of the division.
However, due to Covid-19 restrictions, with increased security across national borders, hosting events in Asia has proven difficult. Zamboanga was left with no choice but to take a tightening fight in preparation for Lee, which he wouldn’t mind doing again if the opportunity presents itself.
“Once the world gets back to normal, I think I’m ready to face Angela. She is my idol. But if the situation stays like this for some time, and if ONE Championship gives me a chance to fight again, then ‘We will another fight, “Zamboanga said.
Previously on the card, Zamboanga’s older brother, Drex, made his ONE Championship debut successfully, beating Thai Detchadin “Detchpool” Sornsirisuphathin in the second round.
Denice followed the contest closely throughout the entire process, watching from backstage.
“To be honest, I was more nervous watching my brother fight than I was nervous about mine. That was his ONE Championship debut, so he really needed to win. I’m glad we both could win. Tonight was a milestone in our lives. races ”, concluded Zamboanga.
Zamboanga currently remains in Bangkok to continue mounting Covid-19. She hopes to return home to Manila before the year is out.
