Denice Zamboanga says friends and classmates never predicted her to become an MMA fighter: “I was very quiet when I was in school”

By Mike Murillo

Modified Apr 23, 2025 15:02 GMT

ONE interim atomweight MMA world champion Denice Zamboanga in action. -- Photo by ONE Championship

Denice Zamboanga did not show signs of someone who would have a lot of success in a career in combat sports in her younger years for her quiet demeanor. She said that her friends and classmates would attest to that.

The reigning ONE interim atomweight MMA world champion said that back in her school days, she kept to herself most of the time. But since the martial arts bug bit her, she has never looked back.

Zamboanga shared this in her recent appearance on Atleta Filipina, where she got to talk about her martial arts journey.

'The Menace' said:

Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more

"My college classmates are really surprised to see where I am now because I was very quiet when I was in school. They didn’t know why I would be a fighter now, when back then I didn’t even talk much on the campus. This sport doesn’t choose who will pursue it. Anyone can do it."

Watch the interview below:

Denice Zamboanga started a professional career in MMA midway in the 2010s and has had a lot of success to date, boasting of an impressive 12-2 record.

She has spent the last six years in ONE Championship, where she has continuously elevated her game to become one of the noted female fighters in the organization.

Denice Zamboanga gearing up for biggest match of her career

Denice Zamboanga is now gearing up for what will be her biggest match to date when she tries to become the undisputed ONE atomweight MMA world champion. She is viewing it not only as a significant milestone for herself but also for the Philippines.

The 28-year-old T-Rex Mixed Martial Arts Training Center affiliate will challenge reigning atomweight MMA queen Stamp Fairtex in a unification bout at ONE 173: Denver on Aug. 1.

In an interview with ONE Championship, Zamboanga spoke about the significance of her scheduled title clash with Stamp, saying:

“This upcoming fight against Stamp Fairtex in the United States is a dream come true for me. It’s not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for the Philippines."

In her last match back in January, where she claimed the interim atomweight MMA championship belt, Zamboanga made history by becoming the first Filipino female fighter to become MMA world champion.

For more information on ONE 173: Denver, check out onefc.com.

About the author

Michael Murillo is a journalist who covers basketball and MMA at Sportskeeda with over two decades of experience. Michael has contributed as a proofreader, columnist and journalist for the Philippine broadsheet BusinessWorld.

A graduate of the University of the Philippines with a degree in English Studies, basketball caught Michael's imagination from an early age. Varsity basketball helped Michael to express himself, and later, it opened doors into the world of journalism.

Michael has a particular admiration for the Phoenix Suns, inspired by Kevin Durant. Icons like Magic Johnson and modern legends like Durant have left an indelible mark on Michael for their revolutionary impact on the game.

Michael relies on the tried and tested method of thorough research to ensure accuracy in his content. He has interviewed multiple NBA players and officials with BusinessWorld, alongside athletes from various disciplines.

Michael's hobbies include traveling, hitting the gym and watching movies, and he spends much of his downtime seeing his family.

Know More

Follow One Championship News, Schedule & Results at Sportskeeda.

Edited by Krishna Venki