Denice Zamboanga becomes first MMA athlete endorser for World Balance after ONE title triumph

ONE Interim Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga is now officially part of the World Balance family, becoming the first mixed martial artist to be signed by the iconic Filipino sportswear brand.

Zamboanga and World Balance formalized their partnership last week, marking yet another milestone in the fighter’s already historic 2024-25 campaign. In January, the 28-year-old Quezon City native became the first Filipina to capture a mixed martial arts world title, defeating Alyona Rassohyna at ONE Fight Night 27.

Zamboanga becomes the first MMA fighter to sign with World Balance.

“I’m incredibly proud to be partnering with World Balance,” said Zamboanga. “As a homegrown brand, they represent the same values I believe in—resilience, authenticity, and pushing your limits. It’s an honor to represent a brand that empowers Filipinos to move forward with confidence, both in sports and in life.”

Zamboanga’s signing is a significant addition to World Balance’s growing roster of athlete endorsers, which already includes PBA star Scottie Thompson, a member of the league’s 50 Greatest Players list, and 10-time PVL champion Michele Gumabao—one of Zamboanga’s personal sports idols. In fact, Zamboanga recently attended a Creamline match at PhilSports Arena to support Gumabao and the Cool Smashers.

“Denice Zamboanga’s achievement as the first Filipina World Title holder in MMA proves that with hard work and dedication, we Filipinos can excel on the world stage,” said World Balance president and CEO Barnaby Chong. “World Balance is so proud and honored to have her in the family, as we continue to support our local athletes especially on the world stage.”

Zamboanga’s rise to the top wasn’t without adversity. She battled through injuries, delays, and controversial decisions—yet emerged triumphant and now stands as a trailblazer for Filipina fighters in the global MMA scene.

Next up for Zamboanga is a high-stakes title unification bout against close friend and fellow superstar Stamp Fairtex at ONE 173: Denver on August 3.

“This partnership means a lot to me, not just as an athlete but as someone who’s always believed in staying true to my roots,” said Zamboanga. “World Balance has been a part of many Filipinos’ lives growing up, and now I get to carry that legacy with me inside and outside the cage.”