Claressa Shields makes bid to become four-division champion

Claressa Shields, often referred to as the G.W.O.A.T (Greatest Woman of All Time), is set to make history once again by attempting to become a four-division world champion. Shields will face Canadian boxer Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse for the vacant WBO light-heavyweight title, a move that underscores her ambition and dominance in women’s boxing. This bout is not just another fight for Shields but a significant milestone that could solidify her legacy as one of the most versatile and accomplished fighters in the sport.

Shields’ rise through the boxing ranks has been nothing short of extraordinary. She first captured the public’s attention with her gold medal victories at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, making her the first American boxer to win consecutive Olympic golds. Her professional career has been marked by a rapid accumulation of titles, capturing world championships in the super middleweight, middleweight, and junior middleweight divisions. Shields’ pursuit of the light-heavyweight title is a testament to her relentless drive to challenge herself and push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.

Who is Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse?

Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, though less well-known on the international stage, is a formidable opponent in her own right. The Canadian boxer brings a solid record and a reputation for toughness and resilience. Lepage-Joanisse’s opportunity to fight Shields is the most significant of her career, and a victory would catapult her into the limelight. The clash promises to be an exiting battle, with Shields’ skill and speed facing off against Lepage-Joanisse’s power and determination. The date has been announced as July 27 at the Litte Caesar’s Arena in Detroit.

Shields has been fairly inactive of late, last boxing in June 2023 when she retained all her middleweight titles with a unanimous decision win over Maricela Cornejo. “This is a significant and unique fight where I am moving up two weight classes against a very tough champion in my quest to become world champion in my fourth weight division,” said Shields. “I plan to do what I do best: bring that GWOAT energy and continue putting women’s boxing on the map. I’m excited to bring another entertaining fight to Little Caesars Arena. Last time 12,000 fans filled the arena, and this time we’re going to lift the roof off the building.”

The significance of this fight extends beyond personal accolades for Shields. Achieving titles in four weight divisions would be a rare accomplishment, highlighting her versatility and exceptional talent. It would also continue to elevate women’s boxing, drawing attention to the sport and inspiring a new generation of female fighters. If she can pull it off, Shields will join Amanda Serrano, Naoko Fujioka, and Hanna Gabriels as only the fourth female boxer to have accomplished the feat. As the boxing world watches Claressa Shields’ latest bid for history, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event underscore the impact she has had and continues to have on the sport.