Claressa Shields has cemented herself in boxing history, becoming the first fighter to hold undisputed titles in three different weight classes. Yet, instead of basking in her achievement, Shields finds herself battling controversy, as she hits out at what she perceives as a racial attack against her.
Her latest victory over Danielle Perkins was a masterclass in dominance, as she controlled every round en route to a unanimous decision and won the undisputed heavyweight championship. Her legacy intact, it seemed as though she was on top of the world.
That was until the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission (MUCC) recently announced that Shields tested positive for marijuana in an “oral fluid sample” taken after her fight against Perkins.
The commission swiftly imposed an immediate suspension, citing concerns over the integrity of professional boxing.
“Ms. Shields’ conduct as a licensed professional boxer constitutes an imminent threat,” MUCC stated to Sky News. “To the integrity of professional boxing, the public interest, and the welfare and safety of professional athletes.”
Shields, however, isn’t backing down without a fight. She took to Instagram to vehemently deny the allegations and called out what she perceives as a racially motivated double standard in sports.
“I don’t smoke no damn weed,” Shields declared via Instagram. “And it’s a temporary suspension ’til I go to trial.
“Y’all love to tear a black woman down. I ain’t test positive for no damn PEDs! And the amount of weed they talking about is so small I can’t believe these bozos even making articles.”
Potential consequences for Shields
Banned substance allegations in professional sports are taken seriously, with history proving just how devastating they can be for an athlete’s career.
The tennis world has seen bans handed out to stars like Jannik Sinner and Simona Halep, both Grand Slam champions. Although they were for doping violations.
The closest example can be found via the American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, who was barred from competing at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 after testing positive for marijuana, receiving a one-month suspension.
While the WBO, as a sanctioning body, does not have the authority to suspend Shields, they have issued a “show notice,” requiring her to provide an explanation.
Meanwhile, the Michigan Commission’s investigation remains ongoing, leaving Shields’ career frozen for the time being.
What’s next for the champ?
Shields had ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to stay active and take on two more fights to solidify her legacy.
Following her historic win over Perkins, she expressed her determination to continue competing at the highest level.
“I want to fight two more times this year,” Shields had stated. However, with the investigation overshadowing her career, the timeline of her next fight remains uncertain.
Shields will now have to prove her innocence before she can refocus on the sport she has dominated for years.
Whether this setback derails her plans or fuels her fire remains to be seen-but if history has shown anything, it’s that Claressa Shields doesn’t back down from a fight.
Read the full article here
