Get ready for fireworks! Claressa Shields, arguably the greatest female boxer of all time, is set to defend her undisputed heavyweight crown in a highly anticipated grudge match. But this isn't just another title defense; it's a chance for Shields to settle an old score and solidify her legacy.
The undisputed queen, Claressa Shields, will face Franchon Crews-Dezurn early next year at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. This fight is more than just a title defense; it's a rematch of their professional debuts! Shields, currently boasting a perfect 17-0 record, earned her undisputed status with a victory over Danielle Perkins back in February.
Shields made waves in November by signing an $8 million multi-year deal with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records. The promotion company boldly declared it the richest contract ever in women's boxing, signaling a new era of recognition and financial investment in the sport. But here's where it gets controversial... Some argue that while significant, the deal still pales in comparison to contracts offered to male boxers of similar stature. Is this a sign of progress, or does the gender pay gap still loom large even at the highest levels of boxing?
The 30-year-old Shields, a two-time Olympic champion who proudly goes by the moniker "GWOAT" (Greatest Woman of All Time), has a history with Crews-Dezurn. They first met in the professional ring back in 2016, where Shields defeated the now 38-year-old Crews-Dezurn by unanimous decision in both fighters' professional debut. This adds a layer of personal rivalry to the upcoming bout.
"I plan on putting Franchon Crews on her back and leaving with the KO," Shields confidently stated. "My last few fights, I was dealing with injuries, but now I'm 100 per cent. Franchon is elite, but I am super elite, and I plan on proving that come fight night." This bold prediction sets the stage for a potentially explosive encounter.
Last summer, Shields defended her heavyweight belts in Detroit, the home of the Red Wings and Pistons, against Lani Daniels in front of a roaring crowd of over 15,000 fans. This shows the growing popularity of women's boxing and Shields' ability to draw a crowd.
Meanwhile, rising star Lauren Price, the unbeaten British welterweight world champion and fellow Olympic gold medalist, has made it clear she wants a shot at Shields in the future. And this is the part most people miss... A potential showdown between Shields and Price could be one of the biggest fights in women's boxing history, pitting two Olympic champions against each other.
"The way I look at it, she's always been in the back of my mind that I'll box her one day," Price told Sky Sports. "I'd love that fight. I want to become undisputed first and then obviously think about that."
Price believes their future fight could realistically happen at middleweight. "I've always thought I'll be a multi-weight world champion. Obviously there's talks to happen in regard to weight and what I go up to. When you're driven and you're motivated, you want to be involved in the biggest fights as well."
Price is not just hoping for a fight with Shields; she's confident she can win. "She's a great fighter. I think it's the best fight out there. It'll be a tough fight but it's a fight I believe I can win as well," Price said.
"I think I outbox her with my speed, if I'm honest. I'm just too quick. She's fast. She has got very fast hands, but I'm quicker."
Price added, "Before she said she would do me and [Natasha] Jonas on the same night. Then I boxed Jonas and she said she was impressed, this, that and the other. And now she wants the fight. I must have done something right!" This playful banter adds fuel to the fire, hinting at a rivalry that could soon explode onto the world stage.
So, what do you think? Can Shields deliver on her promise of a knockout against Crews-Dezurn? And more importantly, would you rather see Shields face Price in a future mega-fight? Is Lauren Price underestimating Shields' power? Let us know your predictions and opinions in the comments below! This is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for women's boxing, and your voice matters.
