Shields vs.Crews-Dezurn: A Championship Rematch years in the Making
Detroit, MI – January 26, 2024 – Claressa Shields, the undisputed heavyweight champion and ESPN’s top-ranked pound-for-pound women’s boxer, will defend her title against a familiar face: Franchon Crews-dezurn. the highly anticipated rematch is set for February 22nd at Little Caesars Arena in Shields’ hometown of Detroit, and will be streamed live on DAZN.
This isn’t just another fight; it’s a full-circle moment nearly a decade in the making. You’ll remember Shields and Crews-Dezurn first clashed in 2016,both making their professional debuts. Now, with substantially more experience and championship pedigree, they’re ready to settle unfinished business.
A Look back: The First Encounter
Their initial bout saw Shields emerge victorious by unanimous decision. Though, both fighters have evolved dramatically as then. Let’s break down what each competitor brings to the table:
* Claressa Shields (17-0, 3 KOs): A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Shields has dominated the sport, collecting nineteen world titles and an ESPY Award. she’s known for her technical skill, ring IQ, and relentless pressure.
* Franchon Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs): Crews-Dezurn has carved her own impressive path, becoming an undisputed super middleweight champion before a narrow majority decision loss to Savannah Marshall in 2023. She’s a tough, steadfast fighter with knockout power.
The Road to the Rematch
Following her initial defeat to Shields, crews-Dezurn embarked on a nine-fight unbeaten streak, showcasing her resilience and skill. She ultimately lost her undisputed super middleweight title to Shields’ rival, Savannah marshall.
However, she rebounded with consecutive victories, including a win over Shadasia Green in 2023 to claim the WBA interim and WBC super middleweight titles, followed by a successful defense against citlalli Ortiz in 2025. Now, she’s daring to move up in weight, aiming to become the first fighter to defeat Shields.
What They’re Saying
The stakes are high, and both fighters are brimming with confidence.
“In 2016 I had just come off winning two Olympic gold medals, fresh out of the amateurs, and finding an opponent was tough, Franchón stepped in,” Shields stated. “I’ve grown a lot since that first victory, going on to win nineteen world titles, the ESPY award, and countless other achievements, but me and Franchón have unfinished business that needs to be settled. She’s been poppin’ it like she can whoop me in a world championship fight. We went four rounds in our pro debut, and this fight will pick up from round five.”
Crews-Dezurn echoed the sentiment, saying, “I’ve been waiting and working a long time for this moment, and we finaly meet again. This time as established champions with great legacies. I’m daring to be even greater by going up in weight, strutting into hell so I can create my heaven. I’m a worldwide woman that’s good in any hood and can’t wait to give Detroit, along with the world, a great fight.”
Shields’ New Chapter
This fight marks Shields’ first under a lucrative $8 million, multifight deal with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records. It signals a new era for the champion, with increased opportunities and a platform to further elevate her already stellar career.
Why This Fight Matters
this rematch isn’t just about settling a score.It’s a clash of styles,a test of wills,and a chance for Crews-Dezurn to etch her name in boxing history. For shields, it’s an opportunity to solidify her legacy as the “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time).
As a boxing aficionado,you won’t wont to miss this compelling showdown in detroit. Expect a thrilling contest filled with skill, determination, and championship heart.
Sources:
* ESPN:[https://wwwespncom/boxing/story/_/id/18[https://wwwespncom/boxing/story/_/id/18[https://wwwespncom/boxing/story/_/id/18[https://wwwespncom/boxing/story/_/id/18
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