Claressa Shields once again showcased her formidable skills as she successfully defended her undisputed heavyweight title against Lani Daniels on July 26 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Shields emerged victorious by unanimous decision, with scores of 100-90, 99-91, and 99-91, solidifying her status as a dominant force in women’s boxing.
The fight, which was Shields’ first title defense since being crowned heavyweight champion, saw her maintain the upper hand throughout most rounds. While Daniels managed to keep the match competitive, especially in the later rounds, Shields’ relentless aggression and powerful jabs ultimately prevailed. The crowd, eager for a knockout, was treated to an entertaining bout that culminated in competitive exchanges, particularly in the final rounds.
Shields, who recently earned a spot in the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame’s class of 2025, reiterated her self-proclaimed title as the greatest women’s boxer of all time. She currently holds all four significant world titles across three weight classes, a feat unmatched by any boxer, male or female.
Daniels, making her first appearance outside of New Zealand, brought the IBF light heavyweight title into the match. Despite her valiant effort and quick footwork, she struggled to match Shields’ prowess in the ring. The fight was highly anticipated, featuring an undercard of exciting bouts that included other local fighters making their marks.
The event also highlighted notable victories by local Michigan boxers, adding to the electric atmosphere. For those who missed the action, the event was available for streaming on DAZN, ensuring fans could catch all the thrilling moments.
As Shields looks ahead, she is determined to maintain her title and continues to inspire aspiring boxers worldwide. Her relentless spirit and accomplishments grace the sport with a hopeful message about the possibilities within women’s boxing, reinforcing the notion that barriers continue to be broken in this dynamic field.