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(JUNE 28) – WBAN received a press release on some upcoming news in regards to the upcoming fight of Claressa Shields, (16-0, 3 KOs), of Flint, Michigan  vs. Lani Daniels, 11-2-2 (1KO), of New Zealand.  Their fight takes place on July 26, 2025 at the LIttle Caesars Arena, in Detroit, Michigan.  The two will be fighting for the Undisputed Heavyweight Championship, in a ten-round bout.

In the press release, they wrote, that ahead of the Shields-Daniels fight the “Follow Your Dreams” program is in conjunction with multi-talented child actor and social media phenom King Moore, presented by SMT Financial Partners.

The release said the following:  “On fight night, nine-year-old vocal sensation and youth motivator King Moore, through his Kicks 2 Grow Foundation, will team up with two-time Olympic gold medalist and reigning Undisputed Heavyweight World Champion Claressa Shields and her Shields Community Outreach Program, along with SMT Financial Partners (SMT), to host 1,000 local children for free for an unforgettable experience.

The night will feature a powerful “Follow Your Dreams” tribute—a message of hope, resilience, and purpose aimed at inspiring young minds to believe in the impossible. King Moore will lead an inspiring arena-wide tribute, performing his song “Follow Your Dreams” with the kids standing, lights raised, united in a message of hope. More than just an event, this initiative is the start of a movement: a defining moment that tells every child in the audience that your dreams matter and your future is worth fighting for.

A survivor of hardships and poverty throughout her youth, Shields continues to shine light on the next generation and community programs throughout her home state of Michigan. “Follow Your Dreams” has targeted well-respected youth programs throughout Detroit including Downtown Boxing Gym Kids Program, Kronk/Emanuel Steward Champions Of Tomorrow, Police & Firefighters Youth Program, Motor City Wolverines, Arthur Eddy Academy, and Detroit-area schools and youth organizations.”

“I know what it’s like to grow up with big dreams and face tough challenges,” said Claressa Shields. “That’s why it means so much to me to partner with King Moore and SMT Financial Partners to show Detroit’s youth that anything is possible. When you believe in yourself and never give up, you can achieve greatness—no matter where you start. I want every kid in that arena to feel seen, supported, and inspired to chase their dreams just like I did.”

“Kids make up 50% of the population but we’re 100% of the future,” said King Moore. “I want the 1,000 kids at Little Caesars Arena to know if they follow their dreams, nothing is impossible!”

SMT CEO DJ Selph added, “When a child sees a champion, they believe they can be one. I’m proud of the message that these two champions – Claressa Shields and King Moore – are providing to our kids.”

The GWOAT, Claressa Shields will return home on Saturday, July 26, when she puts her Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship on the line in the main event at Detroit’s premier sports arena Little Caesars Arena against the reigning IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion from New Zealand, Lani Daniels (11-2-2, 1 KO). Shields, the most decorated female boxer in history, made headlines earlier this year by becoming the first woman ever to claim the Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship—and the first boxer, male or female, to achieve undisputed status in three weight divisions. Recently signed to Salita Promotions, Daniels made history of her own when she became the first New Zealand-born fighter to win two world titles, and the first to win world titles in two different divisions when she defeated Desley Robinson in 2023. Shields vs. Daniels will air live on the global home of boxing, DAZN.

Claressa Shields launches youth program “Follow Your Dreams” ahead of her fight against Lani Daniels

Before stepping into the ring to compete for the Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship, Claressa Shields proves once again that her impact goes far beyond boxing.

The undefeated champion announced the launch of the “Follow Your Dreams” program, an emotional community initiative in partnership with King Moore, a child actor, social media phenomenon, and youth motivator who is just nine years old.

The project is presented by SMT Financial Partners and will culminate on fight night, when 1,000 local children will attend the bout at Little Caesars Arena free of charge as part of an unforgettable experience.

The evening will include a powerful tribute to “Follow Your Dreams,” a message of hope, resilience, and faith in the future. Moore will perform his song of the same name live in front of the illuminated stadium, surrounded by the invited children, in a tribute that seeks to inspire an entire generation.

“I know what it’s like to grow up with big dreams and face big challenges,” Shields said. “That’s why it means so much to me to partner with King Moore and SMT to show the youth of Detroit that anything is possible. I want all the young people in that arena to feel recognized, supported, and inspired to pursue their dreams, just as I did,” Shields said.

Shields, who overcame a childhood marked by poverty in Michigan, remains committed to youth development in her community. “Follow Your Dreams” has benefited iconic Detroit programs such as the Children’s Boxing Center, Kronk/Emanuel Steward Champions of Tomorrow, the Police and Fire Youth Program, the Motor City Wolverines, the Arthur Eddy Academy, and various local schools and organizations.

Moore said, “Children are 50% of the population, but 100% of the future. I want those 1,000 kids at Little Caesars Arena to know that if they pursue their dreams, nothing is impossible!”

SMT CEO DJ Selph concluded, “When a child sees a champion, they believe they can be one. I am proud of the message these two champions are sending to our children.”

Claressa Shields’ Net Worth 2025: The Surprising Truth About The Boxing Champion’s Fortune

Claressa Shields, hailed as one of the greatest female boxers in history, has shattered records and broken barriers inside the ring. But despite her incredible achievements and global fame, her net worth as of June 2025 stands at a surprisingly modest $1 million. How did this powerhouse athlete build her wealth, and what challenges has she faced along the way?

In this article, we uncover the real story behind Claressa Shields’ finances, career highlights, personal journey, and reveal answers to burning questions like whether she got her teeth fixed, her earnings, endorsements, and family life.

Inside Claressa Shields’ Financial Empire

As of June 2025, Claressa Shields’ net worth is estimated to be a modest $1 million. While boxing has traditionally been a male-dominated sport with lower earnings for women, Shields has managed to break barriers and accumulate significant wealth through her outstanding achievements and smart financial moves.

Her earnings stem primarily from her boxing career, but she also generates income from various business ventures, endorsements, and public appearances. As of recent years, Shields has made history as a two-time Olympic gold medalist (2012 and 2016) and a multi-weight world champion. Her accomplishments have earned her substantial paydays from fights, sponsorship deals, and endorsements.

The most notable payday in her career came from her 2021 showdown with Marie-Eve Dicaire, a fight that was significant not only because of the historical nature of the event but also due to the money Shields earned for the fight. She became the undisputed middleweight champion of the world and walked away with a hefty sum, cementing her financial position as one of the top female boxers in the world.

Beyond her fight purses, Shields has used her platform to endorse various brands and participate in a range of business ventures. Her high net worth has been carefully managed, allowing her to grow her financial portfolio and set herself up for long-term success beyond boxing.

The Origins of a Boxing Champion

Claressa Maria Shields was born on March 17, 1995, in Flint, Michigan. Raised in a tough neighborhood, Shields’ early life was filled with challenges. Her family faced financial hardships, and she was exposed to violence and crime growing up.

Boxing became an outlet for her, and it wasn’t long before she found her calling in the sport. Shields was introduced to boxing by her father, who had a passion for the sport, but it was her mother who pushed her to pursue it seriously.

She began training at the age of 11 and quickly gained recognition for her raw talent and tenacity in the ring. Shields’ natural ability and work ethic allowed her to rise rapidly through the ranks of amateur boxing, eventually making history by becoming the first woman to win a gold medal in boxing at the Olympics. She achieved this feat at the 2012 London Olympics at just 17 years old, defeating the heavily favored Russian boxer, Nadezda Torlopova, in the finals.

Dominating the Ring: Claressa Shields’ Professional Journey

Claressa Shields

Shields turned professional in 2016, after her second Olympic gold medal win in Rio. She made an immediate impact, quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the professional boxing scene. Her debut fight was a resounding success, defeating Franica Donaire in a unanimous decision.

Her aggressive fighting style, speed, and technical skills made her one of the most dominant boxers in the world. Shields went on to capture multiple world titles in different weight divisions, including the WBC, WBA, IBF, and the undisputed middleweight title. She made history again in 2019 by becoming the first fighter—regardless of gender or weight division—to hold all four major world titles in boxing simultaneously.

As of 2025, Shields has remained undefeated in her professional career, with a record that includes multiple knockouts and dominant victories. Her versatility as a fighter has allowed her to move up in weight and continue to prove her dominance across various divisions. She has also been a vocal advocate for gender equality in boxing, fighting for better pay and opportunities for women in the sport.

In addition to her success in the boxing ring, Shields has also entered the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), making her debut in 2021. Although MMA presents a new challenge for her, Shields has already begun making waves in the sport and could very well become a force in both boxing and MMA in the future.

Inside Claressa Shields’ Wealth: How She Spends Her Money

Financial freedom blueprint

Claressa Shields hasn’t just made a name for herself in the ring—she’s also been smart about how she handles her money, investing in things that matter to her and building a lifestyle that reflects her success.

Real Estate

In 2020, Claressa bought her first home in Michigan to celebrate her 25th birthday. While the exact value hasn’t been made public, it’s a big milestone for her financially and personally—a solid investment that shows she’s planning for the future.

Luxury Items

Shields definitely enjoys celebrating her achievements. She owns a custom “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time) chain valued at around $100,000, and she estimates it could be worth up to $1 million. It’s more than just jewelry—it’s a statement piece that represents her hard work and brand.

Investments

Claressa has wisely diversified beyond boxing and MMA. She’s invested over $1.5 million in a range of ventures, from real estate and gyms to fitness programs and even plans for her own apparel line. These moves show she’s thinking long-term and building a business empire beyond the ring.

Cars and Art

Cryptocurrency trading platform

While details about her car collection are private, Claressa is known to have multiple vehicles. She’s also a big fan of art, with a luxury painting collection valued at around $5 million—adding another layer of personal passion to her portfolio.

From buying property to investing in fitness businesses and collecting art, Claressa Shields has built a wealth story that goes well beyond her incredible achievements in the ring. She’s creating a legacy that blends smart money moves with personal style and ambition.

Latest Developments: Claressa Shields In The Spotlight

 

In the past month, Claressa Shields has made significant strides in her boxing career. On May 7, she announced via social media that she would defend her undisputed heavyweight title against IBF light heavyweight champion Lani Daniels on July 26 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit . This bout marks her second fight of 2025, indicating a more active schedule compared to previous years.

Additionally, Shields has decided to retire from mixed martial arts after a brief stint in the sport. She cited the physical demands and challenges of MMA as factors in her decision, emphasizing her commitment to boxing moving forward.

People Also Ask About Claressa Shields

What Endorsements Does Claressa Shields Have?

Claressa Shields has partnered with major brands like Nike, Everlast, and Gatorade. Nike provides her with apparel and gear, while Everlast supports her boxing equipment needs. These endorsements boost her income and increase her visibility as a top athlete.

Does Claressa Shields Have Any Kids?

No, Shields does not have biological children, but she is a devoted aunt who often cares for her nieces and nephews.

Did Claressa Shields Get Her Teeth Fixed?

Yes, Shields openly shared that she underwent dental work to improve her smile and boost her confidence. Her honesty about this journey has made her even more relatable and admired by fans.

How Much Money Does Claressa Shields Make?

Shields earns income from fight purses, endorsements, and business ventures. Notably, her 2021 fight against Marie-Eve Dicaire earned her $375,000. Combined with brand deals and appearances, she remains one of the highest-earning female athletes.

Claressa Shields: A Legacy of Strength and Inspiration

Claressa Shields’ journey—from her tough beginnings in Flint, Michigan, to becoming one of the most decorated and influential athletes in combat sports—is a powerful story of determination and triumph. Her groundbreaking achievements in boxing have shattered glass ceilings and redefined what women can accomplish in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

More than just a champion inside the ring, Shields is a role model who continues to inspire the next generation of athletes with her relentless drive, resilience, and commitment to equality. As she builds on her legacy with each fight and endorsement, there’s no doubt that Claressa Shields will remain a defining force in sports for years to come. Her story is far from over, and her impact will be felt long into the future.

Here’s What Claressa Shields Had To Say About Losing To Angel Reese At The BET Awards

Boxer Claressa Shields expressed her surprise on X after losing the Sportswoman of the Year Award to WNBA star Angel Reese at the 2025 BET Awards.

According to Vibe, Shields, who was nominated alongside top athletes like Dawn Staley, A’ja Wilson, Sha’Carri Richardson, Simone Biles, Flau’jae Johnson, Coco Gauff and JuJu Watkins, shared her thoughts about the loss.

Claressa Shields congratulated Reese, but says ‘I just thought accolades mattered’

“Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the @BETAwards but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other Nominees [shrug emoji]. I just thought accolades mattered,” Shields tweeted.

During her time at Louisiana Stare University, Reese became a star player and was later drafted into the WNBA. Outside of women’s basketball, Reese has grown into a superstar. With several brand deals, a podcast, and mentions by Cardi B and Latto, the 23-year-old has become something of an it girl.

Here’s what fans had to say

Claressa Shields and Angel Reese

Her followers quickly chimed in, with one defending Reese: “You a got ms shields but reese has accolades too.” Shields responded, “Yes she does but who has more accolades…. More success in their field. Please use google before responding.”

Another user clarified, “It goes year by year not an overall award please read up on the award before you complain about it.” Shields later clarified her stance, emphasizing her support for Reese: “Ain’t nobody saying Angel Reese don’t have accolades or she not good…. I’m saying I thought the person with ‘THE MOST’ accolades and accomplishments would win the Award. I’m team Angel Reese!”

Reese and her team have not responded to the series of tweets.

The post Here’s What Claressa Shields Had To Say About Losing To Angel Reese At The BET Awards appeared first on Blavity.

Here’s What Claressa Shields Had To Say About Losing To Angel Reese At The BET Awards

Boxer Claressa Shields expressed her surprise on X after losing the Sportswoman of the Year Award to WNBA star Angel Reese at the 2025 BET Awards.

According to Vibe, Shields, who was nominated alongside top athletes like Dawn Staley, A’ja Wilson, Sha’Carri Richardson, Simone Biles, Flau’jae Johnson, Coco Gauff and JuJu Watkins, shared her thoughts about the loss.

Claressa Shields congratulated Reese, but says ‘I just thought accolades mattered’

“Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the @BETAwards but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other Nominees [shrug emoji]. I just thought accolades mattered,” Shields tweeted.

During her time at Louisiana Stare University, Reese became a star player and was later drafted into the WNBA. Outside of women’s basketball, Reese has grown into a superstar. With several brand deals, a podcast, and mentions by Cardi B and Latto, the 23-year-old has become something of an it girl.

Here’s what fans had to say

Her followers quickly chimed in, with one defending Reese: “You a got ms shields but reese has accolades too.” Shields responded, “Yes she does but who has more accolades…. More success in their field. Please use google before responding.”

Another user clarified, “It goes year by year not an overall award please read up on the award before you complain about it.” Shields later clarified her stance, emphasizing her support for Reese: “Ain’t nobody saying Angel Reese don’t have accolades or she not good…. I’m saying I thought the person with ‘THE MOST’ accolades and accomplishments would win the Award. I’m team Angel Reese!”

Reese and her team have not responded to the series of tweets.

The post Here’s What Claressa Shields Had To Say About Losing To Angel Reese At The BET Awards appeared first on Blavity.

Claressa Shields is one of the best in the professional boxing world. The female boxer is only 29 years old, yet has already left an indescribable mark on the sport. Shields won her last match against Danielle Perkins, becoming the first ever undisputed women’s heavyweight champion. The boxer recently had a movie release, showcasing her origin story. The movie, titled “The Fire Inside” starred Ryan Destiny and covered everything from her humble beginnings through her rise to basketball fame.

Here’s everything you should know about the professional boxer’s life outside the sport.

Is Claressa Shields in a Relationship?

Shields’s personal life is subject to intense scrutiny and curiosity. She recently opened up about her relationship with rapper Papoose.

The boxer and rapper’s connection became public in late 2024 amid Papoose’s separation from his estranged wife, Remy Ma. Despite the public scrutiny, Shields has expressed profound appreciation for Papoose’s unique support and understanding. She described their bond as transformative, highlighting how his encouragement differs from her past experiences. Shields emphasized that Papoose is not only her partner but also her best friend, with whom she shares deep conversations and mutual respect. Initially, she preferred to keep their relationship private to avoid external judgment, aiming to cherish their moments away from public scrutiny. However, following Remy Ma’s public disclosure of their relationship, Shields and Papoose have chosen to embrace their partnership openly. Papoose has been visibly supportive, accompanying Shields during significant events, including her historic title fight in Flint, Michigan, where she became the first boxer—male or female—to achieve undisputed status in three different weight divisions. Their relationship, though emerging from complex circumstances, appears to be a source of mutual support and affection, with both expressing happiness in their union.

Papoose and Remy Ma’s previous dates back to 2004. The two married in 2016 before welcoming two children, a daughter Reminisce Mackenzie and a son Jayson Scott. The influential hip hop couple announced their split in 2024, both Remy Ma and Papoose posting screenshots on their official Instagram accounts.

Does Claressa Shields Have Children?

As of February 2025, Claressa Shields does not have biological children. In 2014, she attempted to adopt her cousin’s newborn daughter, Klaressa, and cared for her for eight months. However, Essentially Sports reports that due to legal challenges, she lost custody. This experience has influenced her views on motherhood, leading her to focus on inspiring young girls through her athletic achievements. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Shields expressed, “I don’t want to have kids. I want to inspire young girls and give them hope.”

Early Life and Career

Claressa Shields

Born on March 17, 1995, in Flint, Michigan, Shields started boxing at 11. Her father, Clarence “Bo Bo” Shields, introduced her to the sport and was actually a former amateur fighter. Shields says that growing up in Flint wasn’t easy. In her adolescence, she tackled poverty, death and abuse. Boxing served as a creative outlet for her.

“You put in the hard work, you win. You slack off, you lose. So when I say boxing is the only thing that loved me back, I put in so much heart into boxing, and guess what I did? I won,” she said on the sports podcast “The Art of Ward.” “I keep winning because it loves me how I love it.”

By the time she was 17 years old, Shields was the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. She trained for those 2012 Olympic Games under the leadership of Jason Crutchfield, who became a father figure in her life.

Claressa Shields’s Track Record

Since then, Shields has increasingly excelled in her professional boxing career. During the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, she won a gold medal. In 2019, Shields defeated Christina Hammer and made history, as the only boxer, male or female, to unify all four major boxing titles (the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO) in a single weight class. As of today, her record stands at a 16-0.

What Is Claressa Shields’s Net Worth?

Although Shields solidified her status as one of the best female boxers in the history of the sport, the boxers’ estimated net worth is around $1 million. Throughout her career, she has used her success to shine a light on the pay disparity in women’s sports, especially in boxing. After her 2025 historic boxing match, she spoke about wanting more profitable endorsements.

“I think I want to keep fighting and let it set in at the very end because I haven’t gotten all my endorsements and all my sponsorships yet,” she told Fight Sports. “I have some, but it’s like I’m waiting to get that $20 million from Adidas or $30 million from Under Armour and Nike. I’m looking to get there, you know? I want to represent all these companies, so I have some work to do.”

The post Who Is Claressa Shields Dating? Everything to Know About the Undefeated Professional Boxer appeared first on 21Ninety.

Claressa Shields, the heavyweight championship boxer, will defend her title July 26 in her hometown of Detroit.

According to BoxingScene, the undefeated boxer who deems herself “the G.W.O.A.T. (Greatest Woman Boxer of All Time)” will battle IBF light heavyweight titleholder Lani Daniels at Little Caesars Arena.

“The girls at the higher weight classes are fighting each other,” Shields told BoxingScene. “It was so hard for me to get fights at 154 pounds, 160 pounds, and 168 pounds.

“I don’t think any of my fights at heavyweight have been hard to make, to be honest with you,” she added. “I am just fighting who will fight me. It just has to have some history on the line. I want to fight for some belts.”

With an undefeated record (16-0, 3 knockouts) and the mouth to match, Shields has already accomplished a lot but wants more. She is the undisputed heavyweight champion and is considered the best pound-for-pound female boxer. And let’s not forget that she is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and a three-division champion.

“I think a lot of these girl fighters are good, but I think I will be the one in the history books because of my longevity, the Olympic gold medals, and how I continue to fight the best,” Shields said. “I think I have one of the biggest spots in women’s sports ever.”

Daniels sports an 11-2-2 (1 KO) record. She is coming in with a seven-fight winning streak and hasn’t lost a fight since 2022.

“She is a two-time world champion, and she is coming to fight,” Shields said. “I am looking forward to being inside the ring with her and being challenged and seeing if someone could take me off my GWOAT status.”

Claressa Shields is set to make the first defense of her undisputed heavyweight title on July 26 against Lani Daniels at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.
Shields, a three-division undisputed champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, has settled in well two fights into her run at heavyweight and it has led to a much-desired uptick in activity. The fight vs Daniels will be her second in 2025, making it the first time she’s had more than one fight in a calendar year since 2022 and the second since ’18.
And if she can continue to stay active at heavyweight compared with her run through the lower weight classes, Shields has no plans of moving down in weight anytime soon.
“I was fighting one time a year, fighting at middleweight, super middleweight and even fighting at super welterweight,” Shields told The Ring. “It was very hard for me to get fights at those lower weight classes. Now, I’m fighting a heavyweight and I’m fighting two or three times a year. So that’s the difference for me. I’m going to go where I can get fights. Right now, it seems like heavyweight is where I’m getting the most fights.”
“I can make more money throughout the year,“ Shields added on staying active. “I can be more visible throughout the year. That’s very important for my career. Right now, I am the most known woman’s boxer and I’m pound-for-pound No. 1, so I shouldn’t be only fighting one time a year. Fighting more than one time a year, it actually feels great to me and I’m hoping that I can get one more in after July 26, if not, two. If I can get two, that’d be a dream year.”
Shields (16-0, 3 KOs) became the undisputed heavyweight champion in her last outing when she defeated Danielle Perkins in a dominant unanimous decision on Feb. 2 in her hometown of Flint, Michigan. The win made Shields the first fighter in the four-belt era to become an undisputed champion in three divisions and the first undisputed women’s heavyweight champion.
The difference with fighting at heavyweight has been evident. Along with her sublime skill, Shields has felt much stronger. In her first fight in the division, she dropped Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse three times before stopping her in the second round on July 27 to become the WBA and WBC heavyweight champion.
Against Perkins, Shields dropped her a huge right hand in the waning moments of the 10th and final round. Had there been more time left, Shields may have notched a second straight stoppage victory.
“I’m feeling really good,” Shields said. “I’m putting these girls on their backs. I’m hurting them. I’m constantly getting stronger and faster. I like being at heavyweight. I think I look good at all of the weight classes, but I don’t think I was ever this strong.”
Shields won’t close the door on moving back down in weight, but with the difficulty she had landing fights there the trek back down would likely have to be for the right fight.
First, though, she must get past Daniels (11-2-2, 1 KO). The New Zealander is a two-division champion, having previously held the IBF heavyweight title and currently holding the IBF 175-pound title. Daniels was forced to vacate her heavyweight title after defeating Desley Robinson by majority decision on Dec. 2, 2023, for the vacant light heavyweight belt.
Daniels enters the July 26 clash on a seven-fight win streak.
“I think that Lani is a very good champion,” Shields said. “She’s aggressive. She has the whole country of New Zealand behind her. She’s coming to win the fight.”
Claressa Shields and Lani Daniels 
Shields and Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions expect a sold-out crowd in what will be her third time headlining at Little Caesars Arena in four fights. She’ll also be walked out by Rick Ross, a multiple-time Grammy Award-nominated and BET Award-winning artist, for what Salita expects to be more than just a card headlined by Shields vs Daniels.
“July 26 is going to be more than just a boxing event,” Salita told The Ring. “It’s going to be an incredible celebration of boxing. Claressa is going to be walked out by The Boss, Rick Ross, who’s a legend and a celebrity and there’ll be other big-time people in the building. We have some more incredible surprises and additions to the card.”
“I’m always excited for a fight,” Shields said. “I’m also excited for all the extra stuff. To be walked out by Rick Ross, to have an expected 19,000 in the building, I’m always excited for that. To be fighting against a two-time world champion — her nickname is the Smiling Assassin, so it’s gonna be a lot of laughing and stuff leading up to the fight. So I’m looking forward to all of it.”

On July 26, Claressa Shields will defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against New Zealand’s Lani Daniels.

At a press conference in Detroit, Michigan, United States, to promote the Shields vs. Daniels fight, there was Motor City acceleration.

In attendance were Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions, Howard Hadler, president of 313 Presents, and Shields’ manager, Mark Taffet.

Fifty children and counselors from Detroit’s Downtown Boxing Gym were also in attendance. In appreciation of their efforts and hard work at the gym, Shields announced that she will give away 200 tickets to Detroit’s Downtown Boxing Gym for her fight on July 26.

Dmitriy Salita:

“Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, Floyd Patterson, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Claressa Shields. The undisputed heavyweight world title has always been linked to American greatness and American champions. It is very difficult to win, and even more difficult to keep.

“On the one side of the ring, we will have two-time Olympic gold medalist, undisputed world champion in three divisions, and current undisputed heavyweight world champion Claressa Shields making her first defence of the women’s heavyweight title, right here in Detroit on July 26, live on DAZN.”

Claressa Shields:

“I’m very happy to be here. I want to honor and thank God for making this possible. I want to thank Papoose for his support. It means a lot to me. I fought here in Detroit last year when I knocked out Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse for the heavyweight title.

“The girls in the heavyweight division aren’t afraid of me, which is good because the ones who were a little smaller were intimidated. Now at heavyweight, I’m getting the biggest fights I want. I’m coming off a win against an opponent that everyone in the heavyweight division was avoiding: Danielle Perkins. The only one who didn’t avoid her was me. I went in and beat her up. I don’t think there’s a woman in the world who can beat me.”

Lani Daniels:

“We welcome everyone who came out to support this fight. It’s an honor and a privilege to be here. I want to thank Salita Promotions and Mark Taffet. Thank you, Claressa, for agreeing to fight me.

“Everyone knows who Claressa is, and it’s an honor to share the ring with her. My team and I respect boxing, and we respect you. We plan to come here next month and win. I’ve been preparing as best I can to put on an incredible fight. I know it will be an incredible fight.”

Claressa Shields and Lani Daniels

HOWARD HANDLER:

“It’s fantastic to have everyone at Little Caesars Arena, Detroit’s premier live entertainment venue. 313 Presents is extremely proud to partner with Salita Promotions to bring the GWOAT back to Detroit. This event is quickly becoming Claressa’s home, and we are excited to have a third fight. Claressa defended her title here in June 2023. She is truly carrying women’s boxing on her shoulders and bringing it back to Detroit.”

MARCOS TAFFET:

“In 2016, after winning her second Olympic gold medal, I met Claressa Shields, who was 21 at the time. She told me her goal was to be the greatest female boxer in history. I told her that, like Charles Atlas carrying the globe, she would carry women’s boxing on her shoulders to heights never imagined. She smiled and simply said, ‘Let’s go.’”

Boxing icon Claressa Shields wants to see one massive superfight take place.

The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a memorable one for the boxing world, as many of the sport’s biggest stars are making their return to the ring between now and mid-September, when Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford will be going toe to toe.

Two of the most compelling fights to come are when 46-year-old Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao faces Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight belt on July 19, and when Gervonta “Tank” Davis rematches Lamont Roach after a controversial majority draw fight earlier this year on August 16.

In addition to the fights themselves being intriguing, the potential implications of Pacquiao and Davis each emerging victorious are fascinating. This is because Pacquiao has asserted that if he looks and feels good against Barrios (and gets a win), he would have an interest in facing off against Davis, so long as Tank beats Roach in their rematch.

It isn’t just male boxers who have a stacked summer schedule. In addition to the highly anticipated trilogy between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano (which will be headlining an all-women’s card at Madison Square Garden on July 11), pound-for-pound great Claressa Shields has a bout slated for July 26, when she’ll face Lani Daniels in a heavyweight title fight at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.

Claressa isn’t afraid to make her opinion apparent on social media. And on July 10, she openly speculated about a potential superfight between Pacquiao and Tank Davis.

“This is kinda insane, I feel like If Pac man beats Barrios, that’s gonna set up a fight with him and Tank 🤔 could y’all imagine Pacquiao Vs Tank?” Shields wrote in a reply to a video of Pacquiao jogging.

What’s for sure is that Shields isn’t alone in being interested in this potential superfight, especially if Pacquiao emerges victorious against Barrios.