Boxing champion Claressa Shields has shattered another glass ceiling. The Olympic Gold Medalist just became the first female boxer ever nominated for Sportswoman of the Year at the upcoming 2025 BET Awards.
Shields joins an elite group of athletes in this year’s nominee class, competing alongside gymnastics legend Simone Biles, tennis star Coco Gauff, track sensation Sha’Carri Richardson, and basketball powerhouse A’ja Wilson.
“OMG I’m the FIRST Woman boxer to Ever be Nominated for Sportswoman of the Year at the @Betawards! Thank you,” Shields exclaimed in a recent Instagram post, clearly thrilled by this groundbreaking recognition.
Boxing’s GWOAT Earns Historic BET Recognition
The self-proclaimed “Greatest Woman of All Time” (GWOAT) has firmly established herself as a trailblazer in boxing. This nomination marks another milestone for women’s boxing, a sport that has long fought for equal recognition and opportunities.
Shields boasts an impressive resume as a two-time Olympic gold medalist and undisputed champion across multiple weight classes. Her dominance in the ring has helped elevate the visibility of women’s boxing on the global stage.
The BET nomination acknowledges her exceptional achievements and ongoing dedication to excellence in a sport historically dominated by men. Many boxing experts view this nomination as long overdue recognition for Shields’ contributions to combat sports.
25th Anniversary BET Awards Celebrates Black Excellence
The 2025 BET Awards, set for June 9 at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater, will mark the event’s 25th anniversary. Comedian Kevin Hart returns as host for this milestone celebration of achievements across entertainment and sports.
The annual ceremony will showcase outstanding talent in music, television, film, and athletics. This year’s event promises special tributes to iconic BET programming that has shaped Black entertainment over the past quarter-century.
Former hosts of the popular show 106 & Park, including A.J. Calloway, Free, and Terrence J, will reunite for a special segment. Performances by nostalgic favorites such as Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, and Mya will further honor the network’s rich legacy.
Music Stars Dominate BET Awards Nominations
While Shields makes headlines in the sports category, hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar leads all nominees with an impressive ten nods. His nominations include Album of the Year for GNX and Video of the Year for his chart-topping hit “Not Like Us.”
Several music powerhouses follow closely behind Lamar. Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla each secured six nominations, while producer Metro Boomin earned five. R&B sensation SZA and The Weeknd received four nominations each.
Other notable artists earning multiple nods include Chris Brown, Tyler, the Creator, Ayra Starr, and Playboi Carti, with three nominations apiece. The competitive music categories reflect an outstanding year for Black artists across multiple genres.
Shields’ Boxing Achievements Pave Way for Women’s Recognition
Shields’ history-making BET nomination follows years of dominance in professional boxing. The Michigan native has repeatedly broken barriers throughout her career, from Olympic success to professional championships.
Her undisputed status in multiple weight divisions demonstrates remarkable versatility and skill. Boxing analysts consistently rank Shields among the pound-for-pound best fighters in women’s boxing, with some placing her at the very top of that list.
This recognition from BET signals growing mainstream appreciation for women’s boxing. Shields has frequently advocated for equal pay and recognition in the sport, making this nomination particularly significant beyond the award itself.
