Denice Zamboanga Biography
Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga is a prominent Filipina mixed martial artist (MMA) known for her exceptional skills and determination in the atomweight division. Born on January 14, 1997, in Quezon City, Philippines, she has risen to become one of the top female fighters in Asia, earning recognition for her achievements in ONE Championship.
Early Life and Introduction to Martial Arts
Denice’s journey into the world of martial arts began in 2015 when she started training in karate. Her inspiration came from her older brother, Drex Zamboanga, a black belt in Sentoukaikan Karate and the URCC world bantamweight champion. Under his guidance, Denice honed her skills and developed a passion for combat sports.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
In 2017, Denice made her professional MMA debut, quickly making a name for herself in the local circuit. Her early victories showcased her versatility and tenacity, leading to an impressive undefeated streak. Her dedication and hard work paid off when she caught the attention of ONE Championship, one of the largest MMA organizations in the world.
Career in ONE Championship
Denice debuted in ONE Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Jihin Radzuan on December 6, 2019, at ONE: Mark of Greatness in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She continued her winning streak with notable victories against seasoned fighters, including a unanimous decision win over Mei Yamaguchi on February 28, 2020, at ONE: King of the Jungle in Singapore.
Challenges and Growth
Despite her early success, Denice faced challenges in her career, including back-to-back losses to Seo Hee Ham in 2021 and 2022. These setbacks tested her resilience, but she bounced back with consecutive wins, demonstrating her growth and determination to remain a top contender in the atomweight division.
Historic Championship Victory
On January 11, 2025, Denice achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Filipina MMA world champion. She secured the ONE interim women’s atomweight world championship with a technical knockout victory over Ukraine’s Alyona Rassohyna at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. This monumental win not only elevated her career but also inspired many aspiring female fighters in the Philippines and beyond.
Personal Life
In May 2022, Denice announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend and fellow MMA fighter Fritz Biagtan. The couple’s relationship blossomed over shared interests and mutual support in their respective careers. They often train together, pushing each other to achieve greater heights in the sport.
Denice trains alongside her brother, Drex Zamboanga, and fiancé, Fritz Biagtan, at T-Rex MMA in the Philippines. Their unwavering support and shared dedication to martial arts have been instrumental in her success. Denice often speaks about the unique bond they share, both personally and professionally, contributing significantly to her confidence and performance in the ring.
Fighting Style and Skills
Denice is known for her well-rounded fighting style, combining striking and grappling techniques. Her background in karate provides a solid foundation for her striking, while her training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enhances her ground game. This versatility makes her a formidable opponent in the atomweight division.
Achievements and Records
As of January 2025, Denice holds a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 2 losses. Her achievements include:
- ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight World Champion
- First Filipina MMA World Champion
- Multiple victories over top-ranked opponents in ONE Championship
Impact and Legacy
Denice Zamboanga’s success has had a profound impact on the MMA community, particularly in the Philippines. She serves as a role model for aspiring female fighters, breaking barriers and demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to historic achievements. Her journey continues to inspire many, and her legacy is still being written as she aims for further success in her career.
Denice Zamboanga Net Worth
As of 2025, Denice Zamboanga’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000 to $1 million. This figure is derived from her earnings as a professional mixed martial artist, including fight purses, performance bonuses, sponsorship deals, and endorsements.
Conclusion
Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga’s journey from a karate practitioner in Quezon City to becoming the first Filipina MMA world champion is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and passion for martial arts. With a supportive family and a relentless drive to succeed, she has overcome challenges and continues to inspire the next generation of fighters. As she moves forward in her career, the MMA world eagerly anticipates her future endeavors and contributions to the sport.
FAQs
1. When and where was Denice Zamboanga born?
Denice was born on January 14, 1997, in Quezon City, Philippines.
2. What is Denice Zamboanga’s fighting nickname?
Her nickname is “The Menace.”
3. Who inspired Denice to pursue martial arts?
Her older brother, Drex Zamboanga, inspired her to take up martial arts.
4. When did Denice make her professional MMA debut?
She made her professional debut in 2017.
5. Which championship title did Denice win in January 2025?
She won the ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight World Championship.
6. Who is Denice Zamboanga engaged to?
She is engaged to fellow MMA fighter Fritz Biagtan.
7. Where does Denice currently train?
Denice trains at T-Rex MMA in the Philippines alongside her brother, Drex Zamboanga, and fiancé, Fritz Biagtan.
8. What is Denice Zamboanga’s MMA fighting style?
Denice is a well-rounded fighter with a foundation in karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combining striking and grappling skills.
9. How many professional MMA wins does Denice have?
As of January 2025, Denice holds 12 professional MMA wins.
10. Why is Denice Zamboanga significant in Filipino MMA?
Denice is the first Filipina MMA world champion, serving as an inspiration for aspiring fighters in the Philippines and beyond.
