Promoter Dmitry Salita believes Claressa Shields deserves to be recognized as the No. 1 fighter in women’s boxing, ahead of Katie Taylor.
Shields successfully defended his undisputed heavyweight title with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Franchon Cruz-Dezrun, improving his perfect professional record to 18-0.
A two-time Olympic champion, she has competed in 18 world championships in five weight classes and is the only female boxer to hold four major world titles in three different weight classes.
Taylor, an undisputed super lightweight, likewise stands as an icon and pioneer in women’s boxing, of which she is widely considered the greatest.
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Watch highlights from Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall’s fight for the Fight of the Year title!
“Katie Taylor is a historic figure in boxing and I’ve said many times that I’m a fan of her personally and professionally and what she’s done for the sport,” Shields’ promoter Salita told Sky Sports.
“That being said, Claressa Shields is without a doubt the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in women’s boxing today.
“What separates Claressa is not just what she has achieved in an already independent ring, but the totality of her influence.
“There’s more to being a true superstar than just being elite in the ring. There’s an ‘IT’ element to it. The ability to headline, fill arenas, create moments, run events regardless of the opponent – and Claressa has it.
“She may be the first woman in sports history to consistently sell out major arenas regardless of the opponent.”
Shields has risen through the ranks as one of the faces of women’s martial arts, with a big moment in her career coming in 2022 when she defeats longtime rival Savannah Marshall in London.
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Savannah Marshall said after her unanimous decision loss that Claressa Shields was a great fighter, even though she wasn’t as fast as expected.
She later moved up to heavyweight and became the undisputed champion with a unanimous decision victory over Daniel Perkins.
Sarita said she is currently eyeing a match against unified world super welterweight champion Mikaela Mayer, who is coming off back-to-back wins over Sandy Ryan and most recently a unanimous decision win over Mary Spencer.
“Since the beginning of her career, Claressa has pursued greatness,” Sarita added. “She gained and lost weight, crossed oceans and took on some of her toughest challenges.
“A fight with Michaela Mayer is something she has made no secret of what she wants. She also made it clear last night that she is motivated to get back to the 160s in order to pursue meaningful matches that include Shadasia Greene.”
“Absolutely unbelievable! It’s rare that she has that passion within her to compete against the best in any division, at any time. That mindset is what separates champions from generational talents.”
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Daniel Perkins stopped Che Kennelly for the WBA light heavyweight title in sensational fashion.
Shields was involved in a heated confrontation and ensuing confrontation with Cruz-Dezrun and his team at Sunday’s pre-match weigh-in.
Crew-Dezrun was cleared to play after doctors diagnosed him with knee and ankle problems on Sunday morning.
The rivals, who fought in Seals’ first professional game in November 2016, ended the night with mutual respect.
“Of course,” Sarita said. “They shared the ring twice at the highest level. It’s a deep, emotional, physical experience. There was a competitive fire that developed into respect at the highest level.”
“They are sisters in spirit in many ways, and together they are pioneers in the advancement of women’s boxing. Even after two fights like that, the bond, respect and appreciation for what they have built together in this sport will last forever.”
“Franchon is a true champion. She prepared, fought hard and expressed herself with world championship caliber.”
