Ayaka Miura is finally ready to feast on championship gold. The fighter known as “Zombie” will challenge reigning ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga at ONE 173 on November 16. The high-stakes title bout airs from Tokyo’s iconic Ariake Arena, giving the Japanese submission specialist a golden opportunity to capture her first ONE Championship belt in front of her home crowd.
Miura’s Redemption Journey Leads To Tokyo Title Shot
The 34-year-old’s path to this moment has been marked by both heartbreak and resilience. Miura suffered an unfortunate setback three years ago, falling short against Xiong Jing Nan at strawweight in her first ONE World Title bid. Rather than crumble, the third-degree judo black belt returned with renewed purpose.
Since dropping to atomweight, Miura has been unstoppable. The Tribe Tokyo MMA fighter has compiled a flawless five-bout winning streak, with four victories coming via her devastating ground game. Her signature “Ayaka Lock” – a scarf-hold Americana – has left world-class opponents tapping in desperation.
“I believe the fact that I was given this title shot in Japan means it’s my time to win. I truly feel this is the moment I’m meant to take the belt,” the hometown favorite said.
Zamboanga Presents Complete Challenge For Miura
Zamboanga represents a formidable obstacle in Miura’s quest for glory at ONE 173. The 28-year-old Filipina claimed interim gold with a dominant finish of Alyona Rassohyna at ONE Fight Night 27 in January before being elevated to undisputed World Champion when Stamp Fairtex relinquished her crown in May.
The Japanese fighter has studied her opponent extensively.
“At first, I thought she was mainly a grappler, but in recent fights, her striking has really improved. Now I see her as a complete all-rounder. She also looks physically very strong,” Miura said.
Miura Vows To Claim Victory For Home Crowd
Despite her respect for Zamboanga’s abilities, Miura enters the contest brimming with confidence. The submission specialist promises to leave everything inside the Circle, whether via her patented ground game or across the entire five-round duration.
“My finish rate is high, so I want to win in a decisive way. I’m prepared to win no matter how messy or chaotic it gets. I’ll be ready for anything,” the challenger said.
With redemption within her grasp, she vows to make her country proud.
“I’m going to win – no matter what – and finish this with a smile.”