Denice Zamboanga, ONE Championship's No.1 atomweight, didn't take Meng Bo's comment too well after the Chinese fighter won against Samara Santos of Brazil in ONE: Unbreakable last Friday.
Meng Bo said Zamboanga was fortunate enough that their match last year was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, or else the Filipino fighter would've been knocked out.
“I think my stand up fighting techniques will be enough to give myself the victory. I’m pretty confident that I can finish Denice with a flurry of punches and knock her out within two rounds,” said Meng, who hopes to oust Zamboanga in the No. 1 spot.
And the 24-year-old Zamboanga, without any hesitations, is more than ready to accept Meng's challenge.
Read: Denice Zamboanga hailed as one of the best fighters in ONE Championship
“Of course, I'm always open to facing anyone they put me in the Circle with. Meng Bo is the #2-ranked atomweight, so we will meet sooner or later. I know at some point, whether it's in the tournament, or outside of it, we will fight," said Zamboanga, who last saw action with a submission victory over Thai foe Watsapinya Kaewkhong in ONE: A New Breed last August.
This isn't the first time that Zamboanga had exchanged words among the fighters in the atomweight division. It would be recalled that Zamboanga and reigning atomweight queen Angela Lee called each other out last year.
To prove one's worth, Zamboanga and Meng could settle the dispute in the upcoming world atomweight grand prix set early this year.
The ultimate winner of the tournament has the biggest chance to face Lee, who is currently on a pregnancy hiatus.
The undefeated Zamboanga, who holds a 5-0 record with three wins in ONE Championship, is currently holed up training in Thailand under Marrok Force with brother Drex.
“I'm excited this year because there are a lot of possibilities. I'm really motivated to take my career to the next level," said Zamboanga, who's hoping to bag the championship this year.