Denice Zamboanga (left) after the split decision victory for Ham Seo-Hee was announced in the ONE Atomweight Grand Prix. ONE CHAMPIONSHIP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Filipino atomweight contender Denice Zamboanga got what she wanted as she is set for a rematch against Ham Seo Hee in ONE X on March 26 in Singapore.
Zamboanga has been raring for another crack at Ham ever since she took a highly-disputed split decision loss to the South Korean veteran in their Atomweight Grand Prix quarterfinal last September.
“I can’t explain the excitement. This is what I have been waiting for even after our first fight,” Zamboanga said.
“In my past interviews, I’ve mentioned that I really wanted this rematch to show that I really was the one who won that fight.”
Many, including ONE founder Chatri Sityodtong, were convinced Zamboanga should’ve won over Ham. Sityodtong even requested ONE’s Competition Committee to review the bout but the decision was upheld.
Zamboanga, though, has put her controversial loss—the first of her career after an 8-0 start—behind and instead used it as motivation.
“I’m okay now and I’ve moved on from that decision. I’m using that to push myself to train more,” she said.
A world title shot against the winner between atomweight champion Angela Lee and Grand Prix winner Stamp Fairtex likely awaits the No. 2 ranked Zamboanga if she hurdles Ham (24-8) in their second meeting.
The showdown between Lee and Fairtex is also slated on March 26 as the main event at ONE X.
“This fight is really important for me because all of the athletes here dream to become a champion. And I can say that this match will be a stepping stone for me to finally be given a chance to challenge the champion,” Zamboanga said.
“You will see how much I have improved since the last time I fought inside the ONE Circle. I can’t put it into words, but you will see the leveled up version of me who is more feisty and will definitely be eyeing for a finish.”