Claressa Shields has spoke of her pride on being involved in the “biggest women’s fight in boxing history”
Shields will finally get the opportunity to avenge the only loss in her career, both amateur and professional, when she faces Savannah Marshall on September 10 at the O2 Arena.
The self-proclaimed ‘GWOAT’ fell victim to Marshall during an amateur bout in 2012 at the AIBA Women’s Boxing World Championships, which saw the fighter from Britain box to a decision victory.
Since then, the accolades for Shields have been endless including two Olympic gold medals, becoming a three-weight world champion as well as undisputed status in both the light middleweight and middleweight divisions.
Now with the rivals set to cross paths again, Shields reflected on her impact on the women’s game during an interview with Sky Sports, whilst also showing her gratitude towards Marshall.
“I’ve said for a long time, 2012, that I was the one who everyone would remember for life whether I continue boxing or not.”
“But the fact I continued and won the Olympics again and turned pro, and I’m one of the women who changed the game as far as equal pay, equal promotion and were fighting to get equal time.”
“I’m happy it’s coming to fruition, that I have this opportunity and I have a great dance partner, I’m looking forward to crossing the pond and fighting against Savannah Marshall.”
“It takes two great fighters to get in there and make a show. So, I’m coming over there to put on a show and show the world I am what I say I am – I’m the Greatest Women Of All Time.”
Despite residing from Michigan, the 27-year-old sets up camp in Miami, Florida with her trainer John David Jackson. The former world champion has been with Shields since her sixth professional fight, guiding her to world domination.
Shields continued:
“It’s all about discipline. The blood, sweat and tears come with the game, but I enjoyed the sweat, I enjoyed the blood – sometimes rather coming from my opponent – and there’s some crying involved, but now when you’re enjoying it.
“That’s why I come to Miami because it’s a different scenery. Yeah, you’ve got clubs and beaches and bars, but I only go to the beach and the gym.”
The success of women’s boxing has gone from strength to strength with the likes of Katie Taylor and Shields herself becoming pioneers of the movement. But even after becoming such a huge influence, the American remains humble to be presented with the opportunities heading towards her.
“I’m happy for the opportunity and just to be able to have that platform, especially where I come from, and to be dubbed as the biggest women’s fight in boxing history means a lot.”