Denice Zamboanga ONE Championship era has officially begun as she takes over as the undisputed ONE atomweight MMA world champion. Stamp Fairtex, the previous titleholder, stepped down due to injury complications stemming from her recovery from a torn meniscus.
Earlier this year, Zamboanga captured the interim atomweight crown with a dominant TKO win over Alyonna Rassohyna. That victory set the stage for a high-stakes unification bout with Stamp Fairtex at ONE 173: Denver.
![Denice Zamboanga is now the undisputed ONE atomweight MMA champ after Stamp Fairtex vacates the belt. [ONE Championship photo]](http://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Denice.jpg)
However, Stamp’s rehabilitation was derailed by a new injury, leading her to relinquish the championship belt. This move made Denice Zamboanga ONE Championship’s rightful queen in the atomweight division.
“God’s timing is always perfect,” said Zamboanga. “I may not have envisioned becoming champion this way, but I trust His plan. Stamp is a phenomenal athlete. I admire her as a sister and a competitor and wish her full recovery.”
Zamboanga added, “This belt represents faith, perseverance, and the power of belief. I’m here to carry it with purpose and give glory to God.”
Originally set for August 3 at the Ball Arena in Colorado, the highly anticipated ONE 173 event featuring Zamboanga vs. Stamp will now be postponed. ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong confirmed that the promotion’s U.S. return has been rescheduled to June 26, 2026.
“We explored alternate headline options but ultimately decided to delay,” said Sityodtong. “We remain committed to our American fans and promise a world-class experience in every event.”
While no official defense date has been announced, Denice Zamboanga ONE Championship journey as world champion is just beginning—and she’s ready for all challengers.
“To ONE Championship—I’m ready to defend this belt anywhere, anytime. Whether it’s the U.S., Asia, or the Philippines, let’s make it happen!” Zamboanga declared.