Claressa Shields showcased her dominance in the ring once again as she unanimously outpointed Danielle Perkins in the first undisputed heavyweight bout in women's boxing. The fight, held in Flint, Michigan, saw Shields maintain her undefeated record with a commanding performance.
Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist with titles in five divisions, asserted her control over the bout from the opening bell. In the 10th and final round, she delivered a decisive blow to Perkins, knocking her down with a powerful right hand to the chin.
The victory improved Shields' record to 16-0 with three knockouts, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world. Following the fight, Shields expressed her desire for a rematch with Hanna Gabriels, highlighting her competitive spirit and drive for excellence.
Perkins, a former standout basketball player at St. John's University, put up a valiant effort in the ring despite ultimately falling to Shields. Weighing in at 177-plus pounds and standing at 6 feet tall, Perkins showcased her resilience against the formidable Shields.
Shields, who made history as the first American boxer to win consecutive Olympic gold medals, has found success across multiple weight divisions. Her ability to adapt and excel in different weight classes has cemented her legacy as one of the sport's greatest athletes.
The fight took place in Flint, Shields' hometown, underscoring her commitment to her community and roots. Shields' dedication to showcasing women in boxing was evident as four out of the 10 fights featured female boxers, including Ashleyann Lozada Motta, the first Olympic women's boxer from Puerto Rico.
In the co-main event, Brandon Moore claimed the vacant USBA heavyweight title after Skylar Lacy was disqualified in the eighth round for unsportsmanlike conduct. The event, held at the home arena of the Flint Firebirds, drew a passionate crowd of boxing fans.
Shields' impact on the sport extends beyond her victories in the ring, as she continues to advocate for gender equality and representation in boxing. Her influence and achievements serve as inspiration for aspiring boxers around the world.
