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MANILA, Philippines – ONE atomweight champion Angela Lee is not convinced that undefeated Filipino Denice Zamboanga has earned her status as the highest ranked contender for the title.
Lee, who has successfully defended his belt four times since winning it in 2016, believes Zamboanga still needs to validate his position by beating “top 10” caliber opponents in the division.
“Honestly, even though Denice beat Mei Yamaguchi, I don’t think that alone qualifies her to be the number one contender,” Lee said. “The other girls he fought were not even classified. The atomic weight division has at least 10 of the best talents. “
Zamboanga edged out former title contender Mei Yamaguchi by unanimous decision last February before submitting Watsyapinya Kaewkhong two months ago to improve to 5-0.
After the Yamaguchi fight, ONE founder and CEO Chatri Sityodtong made Zamboanga the number one challenger for Lee’s belt.
But Lee believes the best way for Zamboanga to make a strong statement is to conquer the World Atomweight Grand Prix Championship, which was just announced by Sityodtong.
Sityodtong’s announcement came shortly after Lee announced her pregnancy, which will prevent “The Unstoppable” from competing for the foreseeable future.
“I think Denice should have to face the top 10 girls first to really prove that she is the number one contender, and the ONE Atom World Grand Prix Championship is the perfect way to do it,” said Lee, 24.
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