In boxing, every hero is a villain in someone else’s story. For Claressa Shields and Amanda Serrano, the lines between admiration and rivalry have always been blurred.
Both are pioneers of women’s boxing, breaking records and pushing the sport forward. Yet, while Shields proudly calls herself the “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time), Serrano has remained indifferent to the title, subtly dismissing Shields’ outspoken claims.
Though they’ve never faced off in the ring, an unspoken tension lingers between them. And recently, Shields reignited the conversation, suggesting that support in women’s boxing isn’t always mutual.
Claressa Shields feels the divide
During an interview with FightHype TV, Shields reflected on her dynamic with Serrano, making it clear that she has always respected her fellow champion.
“I was a fan of hers before Jake Paul, and I’m a fan now,” Shields said, referring to Serrano’s partnership with MVP Promotions.
But despite her admiration, Shields can’t ignore a noticeable divide. She has made it a point to attend major women’s boxing events, including all of Serrano’s fights against Katie Taylor. Yet, when it comes to her own bouts, she feels the support isn’t reciprocated.
“I want you guys to look at something,” Shields challenged.
“Look at all the women’s fights I go to, and then look at mine. See who’s showing up-and who isn’t.”
She specifically referenced her recent undisputed heavyweight fight in Michigan, a historic moment for women’s boxing.
“I fight for equal pay, equal opportunities, equal TV time. But when you come to my fights, look around and tell me which female fighters are there,” she pointed out.
Despite feeling overlooked, Shields refuses to stop fighting for women’s boxing. She has confirmed she’ll be ringside at Madison Square Garden on July 11 for the Taylor-Serrano trilogy, proving that, regardless of any underlying tensions, she remains dedicated to supporting the sport.
Serrano, meanwhile, has carved her own legacy. She recently became the highest-paid female boxer in history and continues to push women’s boxing to new heights. With another massive event on the horizon, she will once again put the spotlight on the sport.
The question remains-will these two icons ever truly acknowledge their rivalry? Or will their paths continue to run parallel, shaping women’s boxing in their own ways? One thing is certain: they are both defining figures in the sport, whether they see eye to eye or not.
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