Ayaka Miura (12-4) will get her second opportunity at ONE Championship gold when she challenges Denice Zamboanga for the ONE Women's Atomweight MMA World Title at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
The 34-year-old Japanese fighter previously fell short in her first world title opportunity against Xiong Jing Nan for the strawweight championship at ONE: HEAVY HITTERS in 2022.
Miura has since dropped to atomweight and compiled a perfect 5-0 record in the division, including four submission victories. The third-degree judo black belt has established herself as the top contender with her signature "Ayaka Lock" submission.
"For me, this is finally the chance to face someone I've always wanted to fight," Miura said. "I was happy when Chatri [Sityodtong] himself told me about the match. And to have this opportunity in Japan, my home country, means a lot."
The Tribe Tokyo MMA representative believes the timing and location of this title shot holds special significance.
"I believe the fact that I was given this title shot in Japan means it's my time to win," Miura said. "I used to think the location didn't matter, but now that I've been given this chance in Japan, I truly feel this is the moment I'm meant to take the belt."
Zamboanga (10-2) claimed the interim title with a dominant finish of Alyona Rassohyna at ONE Fight Night 27 in January and was elevated to undisputed champion in May after former titleholder Stamp Fairtex relinquished the belt.
Miura has studied Zamboanga extensively and recognizes the Filipino champion's well-rounded skill set.
"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.
Despite her respect for Zamboanga's abilities, Miura is confident in her preparation and finishing ability heading into the five-round title fight.
"My finish rate is high, so I want to win in a decisive way. It's a five-round fight, and I'm prepared to win no matter how messy or chaotic it gets," Miura said. "I'll be ready for anything during this final stretch of training."
The Japanese contender acknowledges the emotional weight of competing for a world championship in front of her home crowd.
"Thank you to everyone who's supported me all this time. I've finally made it to a title match. To be able to fight for the belt in Japan is such a joy," Miura said. "I'm going to win – no matter what – and finish this with a smile."
