Less than a decade after her professional boxing debut, Claressa Shields was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame on Dec. 19. According to Black Enterprise, the induction ceremony, held at Detroit’s MotorCity Casino Hotel, honored the Flint, Michigan, native’s remarkable career, which includes two Olympic gold medals earned before she turned professional in November 2016.
Here’s more on Shield’s induction and her extraordinary career.
Shields said being inducted before her professional career is ‘incredible’
Shields — who has chosen to fight in Detroit throughout her career rather than relocating for matches — marveled at the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame’s recognition of her accomplishments before she reached professional success.
“To be named a Hall of Famer before I even fully stepped into my professional journey is incredible,” she told Black Enterprise. “It’s an honor I truly appreciate.”
It mirrors the “amazing” support she’s received in the Midwestern state, she said.
“I keep selling out arenas because of the love,” she continued.
Shields opened up about the achievement on social media, sharing a carousel post on Instagram that included pictures from the induction ceremony.
“This moment isn’t just about me — it’s about every kid who believed in their dreams, every coach and mentor who poured into the poor black girl with just a dream and every community that raised me,” she wrote in the post’s caption. “Thank you to Michigan and to all who’ve supported my journey.”
Shields will face Franchón Crews-Dezurn for a highly anticipated rematch in February
According to the BBC, Shields currently holds a 17-0 record, maintains WBO, WBA, IBF and WBC titles, and has won undisputed titles in three weight classes. After turning down interest from Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, she signed an $8 million multi-fight contract with Wynn Records and Salita Promotions in November.
“This deal represents more than just a contract, it’s a statement. I’ve fought my entire career to prove that women’s boxing deserves equal respect, equal pay and equal opportunity,” Shields said at the time, per the BBC.
She added, “Partnering with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records gives me the platform to keep breaking barriers inside and outside the ring. Together, we’re building something that’s never been done before.”
Shields faces one of her biggest matches yet in February: a rematch against Franchón Crews-Dezurn. The two fought in 2016, marking both of their professional debuts, and Shields ultimately beat Crews-Dezurn by unanimous decision, the BBC reported.
Shields told Black Enterprise she’s anticipating a competitive match.
“This fight is going to be intense,” she said. “All the belts are on the line. It’s going to be a fire fight.”