“The Menace” delivered the devastating news Thursday evening via social media, citing undisclosed health concerns that prevent her from entering Tokyo’s Ariake Arena to face Japan’s most dangerous submission specialist.
The withdrawal destroys what promised to be one of the year’s most compelling collisions, robbing Miura of her opportunity to claim gold in front of her home crowd while derailing Zamboanga’s quest to establish her undisputed reign.
“Unfortunately, due to medical reasons, I am unable to step into the Circle this time,” Zamboanga announced.
“It is heartbreaking for me to pull out of this match, and I want to sincerely apologize to Ayaka, to ONE Championship, and to all the fans who were anticipating this bout.”
The 28-year-old Filipina superstar captured interim gold with a second-round TKO destruction of Alyona Rassohyna at ONE Fight Night 27 in January, showcasing the finishing ability that made her championship ascent inevitable.
Her elevation to undisputed status came when former champion Stamp Fairtex relinquished the atomweight crown, finally providing Zamboanga with the recognition her dominance deserved.
Miura had earned her opportunity through an impressive five-bout winning streak that positioned her as the division’s most dangerous contender. The Japanese submission specialist’s path to title contention included four victories at atomweight, proving her readiness.
The personal disappointment extends beyond simple competitive opportunity. Zamboanga drafted a heartfelt apology specifically for her would-be opponent, acknowledging the unique significance of competing for championship gold on home soil.
“I was truly excited to defend my belt against you at ONE 173. I know how strong and talented you are, which makes this even more heartbreaking for me,” she wrote.
“I sincerely apologize that I cannot compete this time due to medical reasons, and I hope we can share the Circle in the future.”
ONE 173 remains stacked despite the withdrawal, featuring Superbon versus Masaaki Noiri for featherweight kickboxing unification, plus cross-divisional warfare between Joshua Pacio and Yuya Wakamatsu.
