Claressa Shields made boxing history on July 26 at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena. The undefeated champion defeated Lani Daniels to defend her heavyweight title. More importantly, she announced her entry into free agency during the post-fight interview.
The 30-year-old boxer drew over 16,000 fans to witness her latest victory. This massive turnout proved her growing influence in women’s boxing. Shields thanked her supporters for traveling from across the country to see her fight.
Shields Parts Ways with Long-Time Promoter Salita
The “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time) decided to leave Salita Promotions after years of partnership. This move comes at the perfect time in her career. Shields wants to explore bigger opportunities and higher-profile fights.
“I love Salita and this is my guy,” Shields explained to Sports Illustrated. “But I want to make the biggest fights and the best fights.” Her decision reflects her ambition to reach new heights in professional boxing.
Under Salita Promotions, Shields achieved remarkable success across five weight classes. She earned over 18 major championship wins during their partnership. However, the champion believes it’s time for a fresh start to maximize her potential.
Two Major Promoters Emerge as Top Contenders
Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions leads the race to sign Shields. The promotion already represents other undisputed world champions like Alycia Baumgardner and Savannah Marshall. Joining Paul’s roster could provide Shields with bigger stages and better payouts.
Meanwhile, Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season present another attractive option. Their Saudi backing offers the potential for massive signing bonuses. This financial power could create unprecedented opportunities for women’s boxing.
Both promoters understand Shields’ value as the world’s top heavyweight female boxer. Her marketability extends beyond the ring through mainstream recognition. The 2024 film “The Fire Inside” showcased her inspiring journey from Flint to Olympic glory.
Historic Laila Ali Showdown Could Define Legacy
A potential matchup with retired legend Laila Ali has captured boxing fans’ imagination. Ali recently hinted at a possible comeback for the right opponent. This fight could become the biggest women’s boxing event in history.
The long-standing rivalry between Shields and Ali adds extra intrigue to this possibility. Their verbal exchanges have created genuine animosity over the years. A fight between them would settle the debate about women’s boxing supremacy once and for all.
Riyadh Season’s financial resources make this dream fight more realistic than ever. They have the power to offer Ali a retirement-worthy payday. Such a bout would elevate women’s boxing to unprecedented commercial heights.
Champion’s Next Steps Shape Women’s Boxing Future
Shields enters free agency as the most accomplished active female boxer. Her undefeated record spans multiple weight divisions and championship reigns. This perfect timing allows her to negotiate from a position of strength.
The champion’s decision will impact the entire women’s boxing landscape. Her choice could determine which promotion becomes the premier destination for female fighters. Additionally, it may influence how women’s boxing is marketed and promoted globally.
Shields has consistently broken barriers throughout her professional career. From Olympic gold medals to undisputed championships, she continues pushing boundaries. Her free agency represents another opportunity to reshape the sport’s future trajectory.
