Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga has officially vacated the ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Championship after welcoming her first child with husband Fritz “Kid Tornado” Biagtan. The Filipina star announced the decision publicly, explaining that she is stepping away from active competition to embrace motherhood.

The former champion emphasized that while she is leaving the title behind, she is not retiring from mixed martial arts. Her decision was made to allow the atomweight division to move forward with an active championship picture while she focuses on her family.

Decision Behind Vacating Title

Zamboanga shared that the choice came after deep reflection and personal faith, describing it as a necessary step in this new season of her life. She stated that the timing aligns with what she views as a greater purpose beyond competition, while still respecting the athletes continuing to compete in her division.

She also highlighted that relinquishing the belt ensures clarity and opportunity for contenders still chasing the world title. Her message carried gratitude, acceptance, and a strong belief that her fighting journey is not over.

The Quezon City native leaves the belt behind with a professional record of 12-2, including a 7-2 run under ONE Championship. Her rise to the top of the division was built on resilience, comebacks, and years of competing at the highest level.

Rise And Championship Run

Zamboanga entered ONE Championship in 2019 and quickly made an impact by winning her first three bouts against top international opposition. Her early victories included wins over Jihin Radzuan, Mei Yamaguchi, and Watsapinya Kaewkhong, establishing her as a rising force in the atomweight division.

Her momentum was later challenged when she suffered consecutive defeats against South Korea’s Ham Seo Hee in 2021 and 2022. Those setbacks tested her career trajectory but ultimately fueled a strong comeback run.

She rebounded with three straight wins over Lin Heqin, Julie Mezabarba, and Noelle Grandjean, earning another shot at the top of the division. That surge led to a title opportunity against Alyona Rassohyna at ONE Fight Night 27 in January 2025, where she captured the interim belt via second-round TKO along with a performance bonus.

Her interim success was later elevated to undisputed champion status after Stamp Fairtex was forced to relinquish the title due to injury complications. Zamboanga was later scheduled to defend her belt against Ayaka Miura, but medical concerns revealed during that period were linked to her pregnancy.

Despite stepping away from competition and vacating the championship, Zamboanga reaffirmed her commitment to return to the sport in the future. She described this phase as a different kind of victory, centered on family, growth, and purpose beyond the cage.