Joshua “The Ardour” Pacio couldn’t cover his delight watching Denice Zamboanga make historical past for the Philippines. The ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion witnessed his compatriot’s journey by accidents and setbacks earlier than she capturDenice Zamboangaed the nation’s first feminine MMA World Title.
Pacio challenges Yuya Wakamatsu for the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at Ariake Enviornment in Tokyo, Japan. The 29-year-old seeks two-division supremacy whereas Zamboanga makes her first atomweight title protection on the identical card.
Zamboanga’s path to gold examined her resolve repeatedly. Unlucky accidents derailed momentum whereas postponed title bouts compelled prolonged waits for alternatives that appeared cursed. The 28-year-old endured circumstances past her management with outstanding endurance.
Her breakthrough lastly arrived in January when she dominated Alyona Rassohyna to seize interim atomweight gold. Stamp Fairtex’s subsequent title relinquishment elevated Zamboanga to undisputed standing, cementing her place in Philippine MMA historical past.
Pacio understood the importance instantly. Zamboanga’s achievement broke down obstacles in a male-dominated sport whereas inspiring future generations of Filipino feminine fighters to pursue their desires.
The Lions Nation MMA consultant sees broader implications past particular person accomplishment. Philippine MMA lacks feminine illustration at elite ranges, making Zamboanga’s success notably significant for the game’s development.
“I used to be actually glad when she bought promoted to undisputed World Champion as a result of it was a very long time coming. God’s timing is at all times good. She’s a World Champion now, a feminine World Champion at that. Guys aren’t the one ones able to it, in fact. Feminine Filipino fighters can even win gold in ONE Championship,” Pacio stated.
“Truthfully, that’s what we lack right here within the Philippines. We don’t have quite a lot of feminine fighters. So, I’m actually glad as a result of there’s now a feminine MMA World Champion in ONE Championship. It’s an enormous motivation to different feminine athletes who wish to seize a ONE World Title.”
