Written by Tom Eaton on June 5, 2024
In an unprecedented move that echoes the legacies of boxing legends, Claressa Shields, the self-proclaimed ‘GWOAT’ (Greatest Woman of All Time), has announced her intention to challenge for the heavyweight world title. This bold step follows in the footsteps of iconic fighters like Bob Fitzsimmons and Roy Jones Jr., who made successful transitions from middleweight to heavyweight.
Historical Parallels
In 1891, Bob Fitzsimmons achieved a remarkable feat by knocking out Nonpareil Dempsey to win the middleweight world title. Six years later, he ascended to the heavyweight throne by stopping James J. Corbett. Nearly a century later, Roy Jones Jr. mirrored this achievement, winning the IBF middleweight crown by outpointing Bernard Hopkins and later claiming the heavyweight title from John Ruiz.
Now, 127 years after Fitzsimmons’ historic triumph, Claressa Shields aims to join this elite club. Shields, who has already cemented her place in boxing history through her achievements across multiple weight classes, is now setting her sights on heavyweight glory.
Claressa Shields’ Dominance
Shields began her professional career by becoming the unified super-middleweight champion in just her fourth fight. She then moved down to 160 pounds, capturing the WBA and IBF middleweight titles by outpointing Hanna Gabriels. Her journey didn’t stop there; Shields became a pound-for-pound superstar in women’s boxing, winning the undisputed super-welterweight title by defeating Marie Eve Dicaire in 2021. She later reclaimed undisputed middleweight status by besting her old rival, Savannah Marshall, in a high-stakes bout on away soil.
The Heavyweight Ambition
In a stunning twist, Shields has announced her move to the heavyweight division. She will challenge WBC heavyweight champion Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse in Detroit. Speaking to Sky Sports, Shields expressed her excitement and determination to bring her signature ‘GWOAT energy’ to the heavyweight class.
“This is a significant and unique fight where I am moving up two weight classes against a very tough champion in my quest to become world champion in my fourth weight division,” Shields stated. “I plan to do what I do best: bring that GWOAT energy and continue putting women’s boxing on the map.”
The Battle in Detroit
The much-anticipated fight will take place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on July 27th. The card will also feature contests for both the WBA interim and full WBO light-heavyweight titles, reflecting the diverse recognition of the 168-pound-plus divisions by different sanctioning bodies.
Shields is eager to replicate the electric atmosphere of her previous fight at Little Caesars Arena, which drew 12,000 fans. “Last time, 12,000 fans filled the arena, and this time we’re going to lift the roof off the building,” she promised.
Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse’s Journey
Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, hailing from Quebec, Canada, is no stranger to challenges. In her fourth professional bout, she attempted to win the heavyweight title but suffered her first career defeat, being knocked out by Alejandra Jimenez in the third round. Undeterred, Lepage-Joanisse rebounded with three consecutive wins and eventually captured the vacant WBC belt by earning a split-decision victory over Abril Argentina Vidal.
As she prepares to face Shields, Lepage-Joanisse remains unfazed. “It doesn’t matter to me whether it’s Claressa or someone else,” she declared. “My life is all about challenges.”
The Stakes and the Spectacle
This fight represents a monumental moment in women’s boxing. Shields’ ambition to conquer a fourth weight division underscores her legendary status, while Lepage-Joanisse’s resolve promises a thrilling contest. Both fighters bring unique strengths to the ring: Shields’ speed, skill, and tactical acumen versus Lepage-Joanisse’s power and resilience.
The upcoming clash at Little Caesars Arena is poised to be an unforgettable night of boxing, showcasing the evolution and excitement of women’s sports. Fans around the world will be watching as history unfolds, wondering if Shields can indeed capture the heavyweight crown and solidify her legacy as the GWOAT.
