Claressa Shields, the Pioneering Force in Women’s Boxing
Claressa Shields, the unstoppable force in women’s boxing, is poised to make history once again. The two-time Olympic gold medalist, who is undefeated as a professional at 14-0, is set to become the first woman to compete in a professional mixed martial arts (MMA) event in Saudi Arabia.
On Saturday, Shields will face Kelsey DeSantis in a highly anticipated matchup that will be televised in the United States on ESPNews and ESPN+. This groundbreaking bout is a significant step in the kingdom’s gradual efforts to embrace women’s participation in sports, a journey that has faced international scrutiny but is now showing signs of progress.
Shields, who has already cemented her legacy as the undisputed champion in two different divisions, is driven by an unquenchable thirst for more. Her decision to venture into MMA is a testament to her ambition to become the greatest women’s combat sports athlete of all time, a moniker she has proudly claimed for herself.
“It’s going to inspire the women there. It’s going to inspire their culture and their country,” Shields said, expressing her belief that this event will have a lasting impact on Saudi Arabia’s approach to women’s sports.
The journey to this point has been anything but easy for Shields. Transitioning from the technical striking of boxing to the grappling-heavy world of MMA has required her to push herself beyond her comfort zone, often questioning her decision to take on this new challenge. However, her determination and willingness to learn have helped her adapt and become more confident in her abilities on the mat.
Saturday’s bout against Kelsey DeSantis, a purple belt in jiu-jitsu and former U.S. Marine Corps member, will be a true test of Shields’ MMA skills. A victory would not only add to her growing list of accomplishments but also bring her one step closer to her ultimate goal of becoming a champion in both boxing and MMA.
Regardless of the outcome, Shields’ participation in this groundbreaking event is a testament to her impact on the world of combat sports. Her journey has inspired countless individuals, and her presence in Saudi Arabia is a significant step in the kingdom’s efforts to promote women’s participation in sports, a move that has the potential to create a lasting legacy.
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