Claressa Shields to Defend Title Against Lani Daniels
Claressa Shields is poised to join the ranks of legendary American heavyweight champions with her upcoming title defense against Lani Daniels set for July 26 in Detroit. Known as ‘The GWOAT’ (Greatest Woman of All Time), Shields has already etched her name in boxing history, claiming multiple undisputed titles across various weight divisions. Her venture into the heavyweight category only solidifies her already impressive legacy.
Significance of the Title Defense
Promoter Dmitry Salita emphasized the significance of Shields’ achievements during the press conference leading up to the match, placing her among icons like Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, and Muhammad Ali.
“The undisputed heavyweight championship has always represented American excellence in boxing, and obtaining such a title is challenging, especially maintaining it,”
he explained. He noted the recent setback for Deontay Wilder, the last American heavyweight champion, who lost his title to New Zealand’s Joseph Parker.
Challenges Ahead for Shields
Daniels, currently the IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion, is not entering the ring unprepared. The 36-year-old athlete, who was honored as New Zealand’s Sportswoman of the Year in 2024, approaches this fight with determination.
“She’s skilled and has everything to gain from this fight,”
Salita mentioned, highlighting Daniels’ potential.
On the other side, Shields enters the match with an undefeated record of 16 wins, including three by knockout, and is heavily favored to retain her title. As an accomplished two-time Olympic gold medalist and the first woman to hold the undisputed heavyweight title, she makes history yet again with this defense—a groundbreaking moment for female boxing.
Statements from Fighters
Reflecting on her previous bout in Detroit, where she claimed the heavyweight title by defeating Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, Shields expressed her excitement for the upcoming fight.
“When I first heard I would compete at heavyweight, I was thrilled. The heavyweight division is finally getting the attention it deserves and I’m here to make a statement,”
she stated. Shields also acknowledged her prior competition with Danielle Perkins, who had been avoided by many fighters in the weight class until Shields took her on directly.
Addressing the challenge posed by Daniels, Shields noted their correspondence, where Daniels admitted to being a bit scared but also expressed confidence in her ability to win. Shields, however, remains confident, stating,
“There’s no woman who can beat me.”
Meanwhile, Daniels expressed her respect for Shields, adding,
“It’s an honor to share the ring with Claressa, and we’re preparing to put forth our best effort to claim victory. It’s going to be a tough fight.”
The Upcoming Bout
The bout is set to take place at an iconic venue in Detroit, a city known for producing boxing greats, and the fight will be streamed live on DAZN. Fans can look forward to an electrifying matchup on July 26, where Shields aims to extend her flawless record to 17-0.
