Claressa Shields to Challenge Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse for WBC Women's Heavyweight Title in Detroit

Claressa Shields, hailed the 'Greatest Woman of All Time' (GWOAT), is set to move up two weight classes to challenge Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse for the WBC women's heavyweight world title on July 27. The bout will take place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, marking Shields' return to the boxing ring.

Shields, currently the undisputed middleweight champion, will be fighting near her hometown of Flint, Michigan. This match marks her first boxing appearance since defending her undisputed middleweight title against Marciela Cornejo on June 3, 2023. Shields has previously held undisputed titles in two weight classes and is aiming for a world title in a fourth division.

The fight will headline DAZN's 'Big Time Boxing USA' event. Shields expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming bout: *"The Queen of Boxing is back! I'm so excited to return to the ring, especially after my MMA victory in February,'* she said. *'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!'*

Shields' promoter, Dmitriy Salita, also commented on the significance of this fight: 'From the beginning of her career, Claressa has been on a quest to make her story a part of history,' Salita said. 'This fight is one of Claressa's hardest challenges.' Shields herself acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match: '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. It's an exciting time for women's sports, and I thank DAZN for providing a global platform for women's boxing. I plan to do what I do best: bring that GWOAT energy and continue putting women's boxing on the map.'

Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, 28, who won the WBC heavyweight title in March by defeating Abril Argentina Vidal, will defend her title against Shields. Lepage-Joanisse holds a record of 7-1 and is considered a formidable opponent. The upcoming bout is anticipated to be a significant event in women's boxing, with both fighters bringing impressive credentials to the ring.

Shields' boxing career is marked by numerous achievements, including winning gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. She is the only women's boxer to hold undisputed titles in two weight classes. Shields' return to boxing follows a brief stint in MMA, where she also found success.

With the fight date drawing near, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a historic clash. Shields' ambition to capture a world title in a fourth division highlights her relentless pursuit of greatness in the sport.

The bout between Claressa Shields and Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse on July 27 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit is set to be a landmark event in women's boxing, showcasing the talents and determination of two exceptional athletes.

Key Takeaways

• Claressa Shields to fight Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse for WBC heavyweight title on July 27.
• Shields moving up 2 weight classes, aiming for 4th division title.
• Fight to take place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, near Shields' hometown.
• Shields returns to boxing after brief MMA stint, defends undisputed middleweight title in 2023.
• Bout to headline DAZN's 'Big Time Boxing USA' event, expected to be a historic clash.