The current ONE Women’s Atom weight MMA world champion Stamp Fairtex’s injury raised many questions about the upcoming ONE 167, casting doubt on the matchup with Denice Zamboanga, which was supposed to happen in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 7. The event will now be headlined by ONE 167: Tawanchai vs Nattawut 2.

Few people know that Stamp Fairtex and Denice Zamboanga are close friends. They often show admiration and concern for each other. Recently, even after Stamp’s injury cast doubt on their upcoming fight, Zamboanga has continued to think and pray for her recovery. This heartwarming display showcases the strong friendship between Stamp Fairtex and Denice Zamboanga.

Denice Zamboanga’s concern for Stamp Fairtex

Denice Zamboanga posted a message on her recent Instagram wishing Stamp Fairtex a fast recovery. She said, “Let’s pray for a fast recovery for our champ.” Later, she thanked ONE Championship and CEO Chatri Sityodtong, and her fans around the world for their patience, saying, “We didn’t expect this thing to happen. Thank you for all your messages, I’m doing okay. I’m thankful that One Championship & Khun Chatri has given me a chance to still fight on June 7.”

This is the second time Denice Zamboanga has missed a world title opportunity. She previously missed one in 2020 against Angela Lee, who retired at that time to prepare for motherhood. Now that Stamp is out of the event, It has been announced that 28-year-old second-generation Thai-French fighter Noelle Grandjean will face Denice Zamboanga in the upcoming bout.

However, Zamboanga’s recent post and caption showcase true sportsmanship, respect, and etiquette towards her opponents and fans, garnering attention from fans all over the world. Many praised her in the comments section of her recent Instagram post.

Fans react to Zamboanga’s concern for Stamp

Denice Zamboanga’s recent post garnered significant attention from fans. Some fans questioned her sportsmanship, while others expressed their feelings after hearing the news of Stamp Fairtex’s withdrawal from the fight because of injury. One of the fans recalled his reaction to the news fight’s cancellation, commenting, “My heart’s absolutely shattered after yesterday, but thank goodness you still get to fight. Hoping to see an Interim Champ next month!”

Another fan commented, inviting Zamboanga on his podcast, saying, “You’re the best @denicezamboanga !!!! I hope you are well!!! Would love to get you on our podcast again one day… and see if you ever got that fight in sight TATTOO.”

Meanwhile, another fan showed respect for Zamboanga’s well wishes for Stamp’s recovery. They said, “Absolute respect. At the end of the day, Denice and Stamp are colleagues who are in the business of providing a great show for fans and spectators. They just happen to know the art of trading strikes.” On the other hand, a fan interpreted this as fate’s decision, commenting, “God’s timing, idol! kapit! future champ!”

In addition to the fan support, Professionals are no less enthusiastic fans when it comes to motivating Zamboanga. Her recent post gained praise and well-wishes from fellow fighters, Nat “Wondergirl” Jaroonsak commented, ” Susu naa 🔥💯.”  MMA and Muay Thai fighter Firtiz Aldin Biagtan also showed his support with “❤️🙏🏼”. He was joined by ONE champion fighter Drex Zamboanga who commented with “🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻” with high-five emojis.

Fans and pros love both Denice Zamboanga and Stamp Fairtex as rivals and friends, eager to see them fight each other someday, and mention them as queens. A fan commented, “Much love to you both, our MMA Queens!”  Denice also gained some fans. One fan confessed, “I was not expecting to root for you at the fight but now I’ll definitely be rooting for you!!”

Are you excited to see Denice Zamboanga fight Noelle Grandjean? Comment your thoughts below.