Claressa Shields: The GWOAT Continues to Make History

Claressa Shields, widely regarded as the Greatest Woman of All Time (GWOAT) in boxing, has solidified her legacy as one of the most dominant and versatile fighters in the sport’s history. The Flint, Michigan native, born on March 17, 1995, has achieved unparalleled success, holding 17 major world championships across five weight classes and maintaining an undefeated professional boxing record of 17-0 with 3 knockouts. Below is a comprehensive update on her recent activities, achievements, and future plans, culminating in a narrative that celebrates her impact on boxing and beyond.

Recent Boxing Achievements

Historic Victory Over Danielle Perkins

On February 2, 2025, Shields made history by defeating Danielle Perkins via unanimous decision in a 10-round bout at the Dort Financial Center in Flint, Michigan. This victory earned her the undisputed heavyweight world championship, making her the first boxer—male or female—to achieve undisputed status in three different weight classes: 154 (light middleweight), 160 (middleweight), and heavyweight.

Shields dominated the fight, even scoring a knockdown in the final round with a precise right hand. The judges scored the bout 100-90, 99-91, and 99-91, reflecting her control throughout. This fight, held in front of a packed hometown crowd, was a testament to her skill and resilience, despite Perkins’ height and weight advantages.

However, this victory was not without controversy. Shields tested positive for marijuana in an oral fluid sample, leading to a suspension by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission and an investigation by the World Boxing Organization (WBO).

Her promoter, Dmitriy Salita, expressed confidence that Shields would be vindicated, emphasizing her commitment to clean competition. Shields herself addressed the rumors on social media, asserting her status as a clean athlete. The investigation’s outcome remains pending, but it has not diminished her standing as a trailblazer in the sport.

Title Defense Against Lani Daniels

On July 26, 2025, Shields returned to the ring at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit to defend her undisputed heavyweight title against New Zealand’s Lani Daniels, the IBF light heavyweight champion. The fight, broadcast live on DAZN, showcased Shields’ dominance as she outclassed Daniels over 10 rounds, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 100-90, 99-91, and 99-91.

Daniels, with a record of 11-2-2, adopted a movement-heavy strategy early on, but Shields’ relentless pressure and precise combinations, including a notable four-punch combo to the body in Round 4 and a massive right hand in Round 6, secured her victory. This win further cemented her status as the pound-for-pound best female boxer, as ranked by ESPN and The Ring.

Previous Milestones

Shields’ journey to this point has been marked by numerous milestones. In April 2019, she became the undisputed middleweight champion by defeating Christina Hammer, unifying the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles. In January 2020, she won the vacant WBO junior middleweight title against Ivana Habazin, becoming the fastest boxer to win titles in three divisions.

In March 2021, she claimed the undisputed light middleweight title, and in July 2024, she knocked out WBC heavyweight champion Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, adding the WBO light heavyweight title to her collection. These achievements highlight her ability to dominate across multiple weight classes, a feat unmatched in boxing history.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Career and Retirement

In addition to her boxing prowess, Shields ventured into MMA with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), compiling a 2-1 record. Her final MMA fight was a split-decision victory over Kelsey DeSantis on February 24, 2024, at PFL vs. Bellator, though she struggled to make weight, forcing the bout to occur at 165 pounds.

On May 19, 2025, Shields announced her retirement from MMA, citing the physical toll, including two arm injuries, and the extensive training required to excel. She told Ariel Helwani, “It was fun, but I don’t have enough time to train for it… I’m already great in boxing.” Her decision to focus solely on boxing was influenced by her family’s encouragement and her desire to prioritize her health and boxing legacy.

Personal Life and Future Plans

In a recent appearance on The Pivot Podcast, Shields shared her intention to start a family with her partner, rapper Papoose, in 2026. She emphasized her desire to be present for her children, indicating a planned break from boxing but a commitment to return to the ring afterward. This announcement reflects her ability to balance personal aspirations with her professional career, further endearing her to fans who admire her authenticity.

Shields also addressed rumors of a potential mega-fight with Laila Ali, who has been retired since 2007. Reports suggest Shields raised $15 million to entice Ali for a comeback, but Ali has indicated that only a life-changing offer would prompt her return. While this matchup remains speculative, it underscores Shields’ ambition to face the biggest names in boxing history.

Controversies and Public Persona

Shields has been vocal in addressing challenges to her reputation, including her marijuana suspension and ongoing feuds with figures like Jake Paul and Ryan Garcia. She has dismissed Paul’s boxing credentials, confidently stating she could beat him in a sparring session, and responded to Garcia’s provocative comments with her characteristic boldness. Shields’ outspoken nature, combined with her in-ring dominance, has made her a polarizing yet captivating figure in combat sports.

Her advocacy for women’s boxing is equally notable. Shields headlined the first women’s main event on a nationally televised card, and her fights have consistently drawn significant viewership on platforms like DAZN. She has also been a vocal critic of detractors, using her platform to challenge sexism and promote equality in the sport.

Awards and Recognition

Shields’ accolades extend beyond the ring. She won the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Award for “Biggest Powerhouse” in 2017, the Christy Martin Award for Female Fighter of the Year in 2018 and 2022, and was named Sporting News’ Female Boxer of the Decade in 2019. She was also nominated for the BET Award for Sportswoman of the Year in 2020 and 2021. Her impact is further immortalized in the 2024 biographical film “The Fire Inside,” which chronicles her early career and Olympic success.

Looking Ahead

As Shields prepares for her next chapter, potential opponents include Katie Taylor, Franchon Crews Dezurn, Shadasia Green, Alycia Baumgardner, and Lauren Price. Her promoter, Dmitriy Salita, has suggested she could emulate Muhammad Ali by fighting in Africa, further expanding her global influence. With her unmatched record, relentless drive, and commitment to pushing women’s boxing forward, Shields remains a transformative figure in the sport.

Claressa Shields’ story is one of resilience, excellence, and defiance. From her challenging upbringing in Flint to her historic achievements in the ring, she continues to break barriers and inspire generations. As she navigates controversies, plans for her future, and defends her titles, Shields’ legacy as the GWOAT is secure, but her journey is far from over.