Photo via ONE Championship press release
ONE Atomweight World Grand Prix virtual media day
The atomweights competing in the ballyhooed ONE Atomweight World Grand Prix spoke to the media about their respective bouts. This Grand Prix kicks off at ONE: Empower on Friday, May 28th which is an all-women’s MMA card.
Unbeaten #1-ranked contender Denice Zamboanga takes on promotional newcomer/ elite atomweight Seo Hee Ham in the ONE Circle.
Zamboanga discussed fighting an individual who many see as the top atomweight in the world. She also talked about possibly fighting close friend Stamp Fairtex in the Grand Prix semi-finals.
Conversely, Ham talked about her lengthy resume, goals within ONE Championship, and thoughts on her undefeated opponent.
Former two-sport ONE World titlist/ #4-ranked contender Stamp Fairtex runs it back with #3-ranked contender Alyona Rassohyna in a high stakes sequel.
Stamp broke down what she learned about Rassohyna in their initial meeting. She also discussed potentially competing against good friend Denice Zamboanga in the semis.
Rassohyna discussed the previous victory against Stamp and the tournament field overall.
ONE Atomweight World Grand Prix
The #2-ranked contender Meng Bo collides with undefeated surging prospect Ritu Phogat.
Meng discussed her methodology for counteracting Phogat’s wrestling game. Also, she talked about the path to earning a shot at the ONE atomweight world title.
Phogat talked about being ready to compete with one of the best martial artists in her weight category. She also zeroed in on the leaps in her boxing ability as of late.
Finally, Invicta FC veteran/ ONE debutant Alyse Anderson faces undefeated, rising star Itsuki Hirata.
Anderson broke down how she adjusted her training preparations to coincide with the ONE ruleset that allows for certain grounded strikes. She also talked about facing a proficient grappler in Hirata who has a lot of buzz around her.
Hirata discusses her composure ahead of this international tournament. Plus, the perceptions she has of Anderson’s martial arts skills ahead of their May contest.
