Claressa Shields continues to look for new challenges. It was announced on Wednesday that Shields will drop back down to middleweight for the first time since June 2023 when she challenges WBA/WBC champion Kaye Scott on Saturday. Aug. 15th at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, live and exclusively on DAZN. Back in February, Shields (18-0, 3 KOs) dominated Franchon Crews-Dezurn to retain her undisputed heavyweight titles (176 pounds + for women). The decision was made to return to middleweight for the two-time Olympic gold medalist, five-division champion, undisputed heavyweight champion, and the first boxer in the four-belt era—male or female—to become undisputed champion in three weight classes because Shields wants to continue to cement her standing among the greats. "At this point in my career, every fight is about legacy," Shields said in a statement. Every fight now is about pushing the boundaries of what's possible—for myself, for women's boxing, and for the next generation coming behind me through Claressa Shields Promotions. Kaye Scott is a champion, and I respect what she's accomplished. But becoming undisputed at 160 pounds again starts with beating the best. That's always been my mindset. I don't chase easy fights, I choose meaningful ones.”

 

For Scott (5-1-1), this represents the biggest fight of her career. The native of Australia understands what's in front of her and plans on showing the world what she's all about. “I’ve dedicated my life to the sport of boxing, achieving success with the Australian National Team and as a professional, " Scott said. I’m extremely proud to defend my WBC and WBA world title belts against Claressa Shields. “I believe the bigger the challenge, the bigger the opportunity, and on August 15, I have the chance to show the world exactly what I’m capable of. I’m in the best shape of my life and ready to test myself against the very best. I’m excited, motivated, and prepared to step into that ring and prove that I am the best middleweight in the world.”