The 34-year-old Japanese submission artist will challenge Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga for the ONE women’s atomweight MMA title at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri, carrying the hopes of an entire nation and the weight of unfinished business.
“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.”
The path to redemption has been methodical and devastating. After falling short against Xiong Jing Nan at strawweight in 2022, Miura dropped down to atomweight and unleashed hell. Five straight victories, four by submission, all building toward this moment when the stars align for a hometown coronation.
Her weapon of choice remains the “Ayaka Lock” – a scarf-hold Americana that has become one of ONE’s most feared submissions. The technique has turned opponents into victims and helped establish Miura as the division’s most dangerous finisher.
But Zamboanga won’t be intimidated by reputation or crowd noise. The Filipina claimed the interim title with a dominant finish and was elevated to undisputed queen after Stamp Fairtex relinquished the crown. Miura has studied the tape and respects what she sees.
“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.
The praise is genuine, but it won’t save Zamboanga from Miura’s relentless pursuit of the finish. Whether by submission or decision, the Japanese star is prepared for war.
“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. I’ll be ready for anything during this final stretch of training,” she said.
For Miura, this isn’t just about winning a title – it’s about proving that setbacks are setups for comebacks, that second chances are worth the wait, and that some stories are best written in front of the people who believed all along.
