Credited from: APNEWS
In a historic night for women's boxing, Claressa Shields showcased her dominance by unanimously outpointing Danielle Perkins in the first undisputed heavyweight bout, solidifying her status as the first undisputed women’s heavyweight champion. The fight took place in Flint, Michigan, marking a significant return to her roots, as Shields has made it a point to promote women's boxing in her community. The bout culminated in a remarkable performance by the 29-year-old Shields, who controlled the match from the outset and ultimately improved her professional record to 16-0 with three knockouts.
Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, left little doubt about her prowess in the ring, landing significant punches throughout the fight. She even knocked Perkins down in the final moments with a powerful right hand, highlighting her boxing acumen. Perkins, although taller and heavier, struggled to match Shields' skill and speed. Previously unbeaten, Perkins’ loss in this match marks a significant turning point in her career. “I want a rematch with Hanna Gabriels,” Shields stated post-fight, signaling her intent for future competitions.
Shields' success in the match not only displays her exceptional talent but also signifies a milestone for women’s boxing, as she continues to advocate for female representation in the sport. As she fought in an arena filled with fans in her hometown, Shields expressed her preference for bringing big events to Flint instead of larger venues like New York or Las Vegas, emphasizing the importance of her background and community support in her career journey. “It was important to bring the first undisputed heavyweight bout in women’s boxing history to my resilient hometown,” Shields shared. This achievement further cements her legacy in the sport, following a trajectory that began with her Olympic successes in 2012 and 2016 at 165 pounds.
With this victory, Shields not only continues to pave the way for female athletes in boxing but also challenges perceptions about women's capability in a historically male-dominated sport. The co-main event saw Brandon Moore claiming the vacant USBA heavyweight title, further underlining a night of thrilling boxing in Flint. Fans witnessed Shields' journey unfold in a venue that holds great significance to her personally and professionally, reflecting her ongoing commitment to elevating women's boxing. For further details, visit CNN, AP News, and The Guardian.