Shields to Defend Undisputed Heavyweight Title Against Crews-Dezurn in 2026
Table of Contents
Claressa Shields, the dominant force in women’s boxing, will defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against fellow American Franchon Crews-Dezurn on February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. This bout marks Shields’ first contest since securing an $8 million (£6.1 million) multi-fight deal.
Shields, 30, has rapidly ascended to become one of the most recognizable figures in the sport. She recently chose to align herself with Wynn Records and Salita Promotions, turning down significant interest from Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). This decision underscores her commitment to a promotional structure that prioritizes her long-term career goals.
A Perfect Record on the Line
Shields enters the fight with an unblemished professional record of 17 wins. Her most recent victory came in July, where she successfully retained her WBO, WBA, IBF, and WBC titles against Lani Daniels. This win further cemented her status as a multi-division champion, having already claimed undisputed titles in three different weight classes. Adding to her impressive credentials, Shields is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, showcasing her exceptional talent from an early age.
A Familiar Foe
The upcoming clash with Crews-Dezurn isn’t the first time these two American boxers have shared the ring. They faced each other in 2016, both making their professional debuts. Shields emerged victorious in that initial encounter, winning by unanimous decision. However, Crews-Dezurn has since evolved into a formidable competitor, capturing a super-middleweight world championship and demonstrating significant growth in her skills and experience.
The Road to Detroit
The rematch promises to be a compelling contest, pitting Shields’ established dominance against Crews-Dezurn’s hard-earned championship pedigree. The fight in Detroit carries particular significance, offering Shields the opportunity to compete in front of a home crowd and further solidify her legacy.
“This fight represents a significant step in my career,” a senior official stated. “It’s a chance to showcase my skills on a major stage and continue to elevate women’s boxing.”
The February 22nd showdown is poised to be a landmark event, drawing considerable attention from boxing fans and solidifying Claressa Shields’ position as a leading athlete in the sport.
