The prospect of Denice Zamboanga vs. Ham Seo Hee III is one that excites MMA fans around the world. It’s a story of unfinished business, personal growth, and the never-ending pursuit of greatness
For Zamboanga, it’s about proving to herself — and the world — that the past does not define the future.
Armed with confidence, preparation, and the wisdom of experience, Denice Zamboanga believes she’s ready to turn the page. And if that third fight with Ham does happen, don’t be surprised if “The Menace” writes a new ending.
With Stamp Fairtex on the sidelines, ONE Championship has an opportunity to book one of the most compelling matchups in its women’s atomweight division—Denice Zamboanga vs. Ham Seo Hee III.
Backed by history, fueled by rivalry, and elevated by the stakes of a world title, this fight offers everything fans love: drama, skill, redemption, and legacy.
For Zamboanga, it’s a chance to exorcise past demons. For Ham, it’s a final shot at the crown that has long eluded her. And for fans around the world, it could be the next classic in ONE Championship lore.
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Stamp Fairtex Endorses Ham Seo Hee
In a recent interview with the South China Morning Post, Stamp Fairtex gave a candid endorsement of her potential replacement.1
The former atomweight queen, who previously defeated Ham Seo Hee to capture the interim world title, made it clear who she thinks should challenge Zamboanga next.
“I think Ham is the most fun because she lost to Ham twice already. I think it’s one with the most challenges and there will maybe be a lot of drama, too.”
Stamp’s endorsement carries weight, given her recent experience with both fighters. Her comments shine a light on the unique storyline that would surround a trilogy bout between Zamboanga and Ham—a rivalry that already spans two fights.
A Rivalry Reignited: Zamboanga vs. Ham III
The idea of a trilogy fight between Denice Zamboanga and Ham Seo Hee is compelling for a number of reasons.
The first two encounters between the two were not only thrilling contests but pivotal moments in both of their careers.
In their initial meeting in 2021, Ham edged out a narrow split decision, a result that sparked controversy and debate among fans and analysts.
Their rematch at ONE X in 2022 was more decisive, with Ham securing a convincing win. These outcomes handed Zamboanga the only two blemishes on her otherwise stellar professional record.
Now, with the world title on the line, a third clash would offer the Filipina a chance at redemption—and a new chapter in one of the most intense rivalries in the atomweight division.
Denice Zamboanga Awaits First Title Defense Amid Stamp Fairtex Injury
Denice Zamboanga, the reigning ONE atomweight MMA world champion, stands at the summit of her division.
Her long and hard-fought journey to the top culminated in a crowning moment of glory, but her reign now faces uncertainty—not because of a lack of challengers, but due to an unexpected twist: the sidelining of Stamp Fairtex.
Stamp, who many anticipated would challenge Zamboanga for the gold, has suffered a setback to her surgically repaired knee, dashing hopes for a clash between two of the division’s most electrifying fighters.
With the Thai superstar temporarily out of the equation, attention shifts to other worthy contenders—and one name stands out: Ham Seo Hee.
Ham Seo Hee: Who Is She?
A Veteran Hungry for Gold
Ham Seo Hee is no stranger to elite competition. A seasoned veteran with over 30 professional MMA fights, she has competed in some of the world’s top organizations, including the UFC and RIZIN, before making her mark in ONE Championship.2
Though she fell short in her last appearance against Stamp Fairtex at ONE Fight Night 14, Ham’s resume remains one of the most impressive in the division.
Ranked third in the atomweight rankings, her experience, grit, and high-pressure fighting style continue to make her a formidable threat.
If she gets the nod to face Zamboanga, it won’t just be a shot at gold—it will be a chance to reaffirm her place among the sport’s elite.
The Redemption Arc of Denice Zamboanga
While Denice Zamboanga has achieved the ultimate prize in ONE Championship, her journey has been far from smooth.
Her early success, marked by back-to-back wins over the likes of Mei Yamaguchi and Watsapinya Kaewkhong, quickly positioned her as a future star.
However, the two losses to Ham Seo Hee cast doubt over her ability to overcome the division’s most seasoned veterans.
Zamboanga silenced her critics in spectacular fashion by rebounding with key victories and ultimately capturing the atomweight world title.
Now, facing the prospect of a third bout with her toughest opponent to date, Zamboanga has the opportunity to rewrite her history and prove that she is the undisputed queen of the atomweight class.
Atomweight Division: A Division in Flux
The ONE atomweight division is undergoing a period of transition. With Stamp’s injury ruling her out temporarily, the door is open for other contenders to step into the spotlight.
Ham Seo Hee is not the only name in the conversation—fighters like Alyse Anderson, Itsuki Hirata, and Meng Bo are also eager for a title shot.
However, none of these potential challengers bring the same level of narrative intrigue or stylistic matchup as Ham.
A trilogy bout, especially with the stakes as high as a world title, offers the kind of backstory and anticipation that fans crave.
How Zamboanga vs. Ham Seo Hee Could Play Out
From a tactical standpoint, the trilogy fight promises an intriguing clash of styles.
Ham is a striker through and through, known for her crisp boxing, relentless pressure, and durability. Zamboanga, on the other hand, brings a more well-rounded skillset, combining powerful wrestling with ever-improving striking.3
In their previous meetings, Ham was able to neutralize Zamboanga’s grappling advantage and keep the fight in the stand-up realm, where she excelled.
However, Zamboanga has shown significant growth in her recent performances, particularly in her defensive striking and ability to chain takedown attempts.
If the two were to meet again, it could come down to who best implements their game plan. Will Ham maintain her dominance in the striking exchanges? Or will Zamboanga impose her wrestling and clinch work to flip the script?
What a Trilogy Win Would Mean for Zamboanga
Should Denice Zamboanga overcome her longtime rival in a trilogy bout, the victory would hold immense significance.
Not only would it cement her status as a true world champion, but it would also provide personal vindication.
A win over Ham Seo Hee would erase the lingering doubts from her back-to-back losses and demonstrate that her reign is built not just on momentum, but resilience, growth, and an ability to overcome adversity.
It would elevate her from champion to legend in the eyes of many fans.
A Pivotal Moment for Women’s MMA in Asia
The potential Zamboanga vs. Ham III fight isn’t just important for the athletes involved—it’s significant for the entire landscape of women’s MMA in Asia.
With ONE Championship’s growing global reach, showcasing a high-level trilogy bout between two elite Asian fighters would be a major milestone.
It highlights the evolution and depth of the atomweight division and offers representation at the highest level. For young female fighters in the region, this could serve as a beacon of inspiration and a demonstration that world-class competition exists within their reach.
Stamp’s Future: Recovery and Redemption
While the spotlight may shift from Stamp Fairtex for now, her influence remains palpable. Her injury, though unfortunate, is likely temporary, and fans can expect her return in due course.
In the meantime, her recommendation of Ham Seo Hee as a worthy challenger shows her sportsmanship and deep understanding of the sport.
Once healthy, Stamp will likely look to reclaim her place at the top. Whether that means challenging the winner of Zamboanga vs. Ham or exploring other matchups remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—her story is far from over.
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Denice Zamboanga Eyes Redemption Against Ham Seo Hee
Filipina mixed martial arts star Denice Zamboanga has her sights set on redemption.
After two previous defeats at the hands of South Korean veteran Ham Seo Hee, “The Menace” is not only eager for a third meeting — she is confident the outcome will be different.
With a renewed mindset, improved skills, and the ONE Atomweight MMA World Title now in her possession, Zamboanga believes her time has come.
Zamboanga’s two losses to Ham Seo Hee were not without controversy or lessons. Their first encounter at ONE: Empower in 2021 was a razor-thin split decision, with many fans believing Zamboanga had done enough to earn the win.
The second bout, though more decisive, still left Zamboanga frustrated with her performance.
Looking back, Zamboanga acknowledges the setbacks but refuses to be defined by them.
“That was a long time ago, and the Denice that she fought the last time is different from the Denice that you’re talking to now,” she recently told Bangkok Post’s Nick Atkin.
Her words carry weight — a sign of growth, reflection, and a deep hunger to rewrite her narrative.
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Evolution of a Fighter
Since her last fight with Ham, Zamboanga has undergone a transformation. Not just in terms of skill development, but in her mindset, discipline, and approach to competition.
Training out of Marrok Force in Bangkok, Thailand, Zamboanga has surrounded herself with elite training partners and coaches who continue to push her limits.
From improved wrestling and striking to enhanced cardio and mental fortitude, Zamboanga is no longer the same fighter Ham faced before. She’s matured, both physically and mentally, and it shows in her recent performances.
Now the reigning ONE Atomweight MMA World Champion, Zamboanga has proven her worth at the top of the division. Her championship reign represents more than just a belt — it’s a symbol of her resilience and refusal to let past losses define her career.
With the target now on her back, Zamboanga welcomes all challengers — including Ham Seo Hee.
“If she’s the next challenger, I’ll be ready. I’ve been working hard to make sure I’m prepared for anyone,” Zamboanga declared.
The statement isn’t bravado; it’s the confidence of a champion who has walked through fire and come out stronger.
Ham Seo Hee: The Stakes of a Trilogy
A third bout between Zamboanga and Ham would carry high stakes. For Ham, it’s an opportunity to reaffirm her superiority over Zamboanga and finally claim the ONE Atomweight title that has long eluded her.
For Zamboanga, it’s a chance to exorcise old demons, avenge past defeats, and solidify her legacy as a dominant champion.
Trilogy fights are rare in MMA, and when they happen, they’re often fueled by rivalry, history, and mutual respect. Zamboanga vs. Ham III would be no different.
The Mental Edge
One of the most notable changes in Zamboanga’s game is her mental toughness. In the past, emotional pressure and expectations may have impacted her performance. Today, she approaches each bout with calm focus and strategic intent.
“I don’t dwell on the past anymore. I’ve accepted the losses, learned from them, and used them to get better,” Zamboanga said.
That mental growth could be the X-factor in a potential third encounter with Ham Seo Hee.
Respect Amid Rivalry
Despite their history, Zamboanga holds no animosity toward Ham. In fact, she respects the South Korean pioneer for her experience, toughness, and achievements.
Ham, known as “Hamzzang,” is a longtime veteran of the sport who has fought in top organizations around the world, including UFC, Rizin, and ROAD FC.
Zamboanga sees Ham as a worthy rival — one who brought out the best in her, even through defeat.
“Ham Seo Hee is a great fighter. She’s experienced, smart, and tough. But I’ve grown a lot since then. I’m not the same fighter,” she said.
That level of respect only adds to the drama and anticipation surrounding a potential trilogy fight.
Strategic Adjustments
One of the key elements that could tilt the balance in Zamboanga’s favor is her improved fight IQ. In their previous bouts, Ham was able to edge Zamboanga with her striking accuracy and defensive awareness. But Zamboanga has been working meticulously on her game plan.
She’s become more patient, tactical, and efficient in her attacks. Her grappling transitions are smoother, and her striking combinations more fluid. If she can implement the right strategy and make key adjustments, she may finally find a way to beat Ham.
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