Promoter Dmitry Sarita says there is a “very real possibility” that Claressa Shields vs. Mikaela Mayer will take place this year and could be “the biggest fight in women’s boxing”.
Shields can regain his dominance in the sport by defending his undisputed world heavyweight title against Franchon Cruz-Dezurun on Sunday in Detroit.
A victory for the five-division world champion would open him up to a fight with fellow American Mayer, who holds world titles in three weight divisions.
“We are now fully focused on February 22nd, our major rematch against Franchon Crew Desruns,” Shields promoter Sarita told Sky Sports.
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World champion Mikaela Mayer outclassed Sandy Ryan to retain the WBO welterweight title.
“This is one of the most important fights in boxing and Claressa understands the magnitude of this moment.
“That being said, assuming she wins, I think a Shields vs. Mayer fight is very realistic this year. Claressa has been moving up and down in weight to get the biggest fight possible.
“Her record shows that she wants to have the biggest fight, and both sides have expressed a willingness to have serious and meaningful discussions to make that happen.”
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Claressa Shields has racked up overwhelming wins since turning professional.
Mayer also expressed his desire to fight Shields to Sky Sports, saying: “I’ve always been looking to have the biggest and best fight possible.
“It’s a fight that fans want to see and that continues to grow women’s boxing. Right now, it’s me vs. Claressa Shields.
“Let’s score the match and show the world the best women’s boxing match the world has ever seen.”
Mayer unified the WBC, WBO and WBA titles with a win over Mary Spencer in October and last fought at super welterweight, so Shields and Mayer will need to agree on the appropriate weight class.
“Yes, this is definitely a fight that both sides are interested in exploring. The only real issue is weight, but it’s not an unrealistic hurdle,” Sarita said.
“From a global perspective, this is without a doubt the biggest fight in women’s boxing. It’s meaningful, it’s competitive, and it’s capturing the attention of audiences in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
“These are the types of fights that Claressa has consistently pursued throughout her career.”
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Mikaela Mayer became the unified super welterweight champion with a dominant unanimous points victory over Mary Spencer in Montreal. Interview courtesy of Top Rank Boxing.
Shields signed an $8 million (£6.1 million) promotional deal with Sarita Promotions and Wynn Records in November last year.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist has worked with Sarita since the early stages of his professional career and predicts further career-defining wins for the Michigan-born fighter.
“Claressa is a generational talent and we are honored that she has chosen to build her legacy with us,” said Sarita.
“What separates her is not just her skill, it’s her willingness to take risks and move across divisions, and her star power and personality to headline major arenas while moving the sport forward.
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Watch highlights from Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall’s fight for the Fight of the Year title!
“As a former fighter influenced by HBO, Showtime, and the great Sky broadcasts of the past, I believe in blending what made boxing powerful back then with the tools of today.
“Shields changed the world of boxing”
“That means elite and meaningful matchmaking, but it also means modern storytelling. We develop fighters through authentic stories, digital engagement, and deep connections in music, culture, and community.
“We’re proud to be fighter-first, and that means giving our athletes the platform, resources and freedom to grow into global stars.
“Claressa’s journey with us reflects that vision. Her first fight under our banner was in a venue with approximately 1,000 people. Now, she is headlining a nearly 20,000-seat arena in Detroit and generating huge seven-figure gates.”
Claressa Shields is promoted by Dmitry Sarita and Wynn Records (Photo by Sarita Promotions/Stephanie Tapp)
“Our partnership with Wynn Records has evolved into something special, integrating music and culture in a way that elevates the entire event. Once again, she will be brought into the ring by a major superstar, amplifying her brand and spectacle.”
“Her fight is a statement. Detroit is back as the epicenter of world-class boxing. Women can headline, fill arenas, command big bucks and inspire the next generation.
“A girl from Flint with a dream changed the world of boxing. We’re just getting started.”
Watch Caroline Dubois vs Terry Harper live on Sky Sports on Sunday 5th April. Tickets can be purchased here
