Professional female boxing ranks amongst the most popular sports on the planet, with millions tuning in to see the best take on the best over ten rounds. Women's world champions have become celebrities today, but the sport has given us few names better known than champion Claressa Shields. The 28-year-old from Flint, Michigan, remains undefeated in a professional boxing ring and has recently taken her talents to the world of mixed martial arts.
Undisputed champion in the noble art, Shields carries a professional boxing record that details 14 wins from as many bouts. With just two coming by way of knockout, T-Rex doesn't possess the kind of power once demonstrated by legends Mike Tyson or Riddick Bowe. But what Claressa lacks in power, she more than makes up for in speed, accuracy, and polished boxing skills. Those attributes served her well in the octagon recently when she grabbed an impressive win.
Few predicted Shields to get the victory, and the Oklahoma sports betting apps suggested she had a tough night's work ahead. But Shields is someone who pays little attention to the predictions of others, especially her doubters. Instead, she relies on her abilities, fighting IQ, and experience to keep adding wins to the pile. Shields now has two wins against one defeat on her MMA CV, and she has big plans for the future in both boxing and MMA.
History-maker
A multi-belt world champion and professional fighter, setting records and pushing boundaries is nothing new to the 5ft 8inch with an orthodox fighting stance. Still, she was visibly proud of her latest achievement. A winner before she entered the ring, Shields' fight in Riyadh against Kelsey De Santis was the first professional MMA bout fought in Saudi Arabia between two women. And it's unlikely to be the last time the popular American enters the history books, especially if she goes on to win an MMA world title.
Shields may have beaten opponent Santis on points, but it was a painfully close decision following a pulsating fight in the Kingdom. Shields has won boxing world titles at three different weights, and her striking game was as good as expected, finding her distance early and landing eye-catching shots. Despite being caught with crisp punches, Santis remained competitive and felt she had claims on the win when awaiting the result. A split decision tells just how close the fight was throughout the duration.
Fans now wait for news on Claressa's next fight and if it will be in the octagon or the ancient squared circle. Until a date is confirmed for her next outing, let's bring readers up to speed on the remarkable story of Claressa Shields and her rise to the top. Keep reading as we dive deep into the woman that packs a punch.
Medal success
Shields first gained international attention at the 2012 London Olympics, where women's boxing made its debut. At just 17 years old, Shields secured a gold medal in the middleweight division, making her the youngest Olympic gold medalist in boxing since 1924. Her impressive victory not only showcased her skill in the ring but also hinted at the historic career that lay ahead.
Shields didn't stop there. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, she defended her title and secured another gold medal, cementing her status as one of the most accomplished amateur boxers in history. The back-to-back Olympic gold medals marked a significant achievement for Shields, underscoring her dominance and resilience on the international stage.
Professional ranks
After conquering the amateur ranks, Claressa made a seamless transition to the professional boxing scene. In November 2016, she made her professional debut against Franchon Crews, and from the outset, it was evident that Shields was determined to make an impact. Her ferocious fighting style, combined with her technical prowess, quickly earned her a reputation as a rising star in the professional boxing world.
Shields's career continued to soar as she claimed multiple world titles across different weight divisions. In 2018, she became the unified middleweight champion, holding the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles simultaneously. The following year, she made history again by becoming the fastest boxer, male or female, to win titles in three weight classes.
Life away from fighting
Beyond her achievements in the ring, Shields has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in boxing. She has consistently spoken out about the disparities between male and female boxers, pushing for equal pay and opportunities. Shields's advocacy extends beyond the confines of the sport, as she uses her platform to inspire young athletes, especially girls, to pursue their dreams despite societal challenges.
Claressa's journey is defined by her achievements in the ring and by the unwavering support of her family. Despite facing financial difficulties, Shields's father, Bo, played a pivotal role in nurturing her talent and instilling the discipline required for success in boxing. The familial bond and support became crucial pillars in Shields's journey to becoming a world-class athlete.
In interviews, Shields often speaks about the challenges her family faced and the sacrifices made to support her boxing career. This narrative of overcoming adversity and uplifting her family serves as a powerful motivation for the boxer, propelling her to strive for excellence both inside and outside the ring.
Legacy
As Claressa Shields continues to make history and break barriers in the world of combat sports, her legacy goes beyond the titles and medals. She stands as a symbol of resilience, determination, and the ability to overcome adversity. Shields's impact on women's boxing transcends the sport, inspiring a new generation of athletes to dream big and challenge the status quo.
In a sport where male athletes often dominate the spotlight, Shields has become a trailblazer, proving that gender is not a limitation but an opportunity to redefine expectations. Her story resonates with individuals facing obstacles, showing them that with dedication and belief in oneself, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.
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