Claressa Shields Confirms MMA Exit After Three Fights
Claressa Shields, 30, made waves when she transitioned from boxing to the Professional Fighters League (PFL), stepping into unfamiliar territory to test her skills in mixed martial arts. With a decorated boxing background that includes multiple Olympic gold medals and undisputed world titles, her move to MMA was seen as both bold and ambitious. Recently, however, she made a surprising announcement—one that signals the end of that chapter.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Shields openly addressed her MMA future: ‘Oh no, MMA is done. It was fun. I don’t have enough time to train for it. It takes 6–8 months just to get ready to defend takedowns.’ She added, ‘Even though I got a lot better, I put in time. It was fun, I enjoyed every fight.
My family never wanted me to do it. I did it to prove a point and I proved that point—I won twice.’ Shields revealed she was offered one more fight with the PFL but turned it down, citing her relationship with rapper Papoose. Shields noted that while she enjoyed MMA, Papoose expressed concern over her continued involvement in the sport. ‘He told me, ‘I can’t handle you doing MMA anymore.’
Shields debuted in MMA in June 2021 against Brittney Elkin, winning via third-round TKO after a come-from-behind performance. She later faced Abigail Montes and was handed a close split decision loss. In her most recent outing, she returned in 2023 and edged out Kelsey De Santis by split decision. Shields ends her MMA run with a 2-1 record, proving she could compete—but making it clear she’s closing the door for good. She now turns her full attention back to boxing, with a scheduled bout against Lani Daniels on July 26th at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. For Shields, the shift marks a return to her roots—and a renewed focus on cementing her legacy in the ring.
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