Claressa Shields: A Champion’s Journey
Claressa Shields, the acclaimed American boxer, has notched up a remarkable record of 17 victories, including three knockouts. Her journey to prominence commenced just six months shy of the 2012 Olympics when, at the tender age of 16, she triumphed over then-national champion Franchon Crews-Dezurn, who was eight years her senior, at the U.S. Olympic trials. This match catalyzed Shields’ ascent, culminating in a gold medal at the London Olympics and further amateur victories against Crews-Dezurn, including a decisive win in their professional debuts back in 2016. As their rivalry rekindles this Saturday, Shields will defend her undisputed heavyweight title against Crews-Dezurn once again.
Reflections on Rivalry
“Franchon and I have always been connected in our journeys.”
Shields reflected on their intertwined careers, recounting how fate played a role when she was ranked seventh nationally. In a draw against a talented field, she inexplicably found herself up against the top-ranked contender:
“I pulled out number one.”
Groundbreaking Contract
Shields’ upcoming bout is part of a landmark multi-fight contract she signed with Wynn Records and Salita Promotions last November. The deal is valued at an impressive $8 million (£6.1 million), supplemented by a $3 million (£2.2 million) signing bonus. These figures are exceptional in women’s boxing, and Shields, a two-time Olympic champion and five-weight world titleholder, is at the forefront of changing the landscape in the sport.
“I have never seen a man receive a signing bonus of that magnitude,”
Shields asserted. She further expressed her determination to reclaim lost opportunities from earlier in her career, recalling how she should have secured a signing bonus after her Olympic success but did not.
Achievements and Future Goals
Shields has proudly earned the title of the Greatest Woman of All Time (GWOAT), supported by her track record. After clinching her first world title within just four professional fights, she embarked on a remarkable streak of 14 consecutive title fights without a loss. Her last defeat was as an amateur against Savannah Marshall in 2012, a loss she avenged in 2022. Despite her accolades, Shields remains driven to push her limits and achieve further milestones, stating,
“I strive to enhance my skills and give my all, seeking knockouts after demonstrating my dominance in the ring.”
Focus on Boxing
As she nears her 31st birthday, Shields has distanced herself from mixed martial arts to solely focus on boxing, planning to compete until she is 38. She has recently received challenges from both Lauren Price, the unified welterweight champion, and Mikaela Mayer, who has also won multiple titles. Price, in particular, has prompted Shields to move down from heavyweight, a task that would require Shields to drop five divisions. Shields has made it clear that if these fighters are serious about stepping up, they should meet her halfway around the weight classes:
“I don’t see why I need to descend multiple weight classes when I was previously unable to secure fights at 154lb or 160lb. Now, they are calling me out at 175lb?”
Ahead of a busy boxing calendar, Shields remains committed to proving why she is a force to reckon with in the sport as she prepares to face her long-time rival once again this weekend.
