ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice Zamboanga has confirmed her withdrawal from her first World Title defense against Ayaka Miura at ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri. The highly anticipated showdown was set for November 16 at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, but medical reasons forced Zamboanga to step away from the fight.

The 28-year-old Filipino champion shared the news through her social media accounts, expressing heartbreak over missing the opportunity. “Unfortunately, due to medical reasons, I am unable to step into the Circle this time,” Zamboanga wrote. “It is heartbreaking for me to pull out of this match, and I want to sincerely apologize to Ayaka, to ONE Championship, and to all the fans.”

Zamboanga’s rise to the atomweight crown

Zamboanga earned the interim atomweight title at ONE Fight Night 27 in January with a second-round TKO win over Alyona Rassohyna. Her status was elevated to undisputed champion after Stamp Fairtex vacated the belt in May. The Quezon City native was set to make her first defense against Miura, who earned her title shot through a dominant five-bout winning streak.

Despite her withdrawal, Zamboanga assured fans of her return, promising to recover fully and defend the title in the future. “This sport means everything to me, and I promise I am fully committed to coming back stronger,” she said.

ONE 173 continues with stacked lineup

Although Zamboanga’s fight is off the card, ONE 173 remains a blockbuster event in Tokyo. Headlined by Superbon vs Noiri, the event also features a major clash between Joshua Pacio and Yuya Wakamatsu. Pacio, the reigning ONE Strawweight Champion, will attempt to become a two-division titleholder when he challenges Wakamatsu for the flyweight crown.

While fans will have to wait for Zamboanga’s return, Filipino representation at ONE 173 remains strong with Pacio carrying the country’s hopes inside the Circle.