Get ready for an explosive night of boxing as Detroit gears up for its biggest fight of the year! The highly anticipated showdown between the GWOAT (Greatest Woman of All Time) Claressa Shields and her challenger, Franchon Crews-Dezurn, is finally here. With an impressive record of 17-0 and 3 KOs, Shields, the undisputed women's heavyweight champion, is set to defend her title against Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs) on Sunday, February 22nd, at the iconic Little Caesars Arena. The main event is scheduled for an electrifying 11 p.m. ET ringwalk, and you can catch all the action live on DAZN.
But here's where it gets controversial... Shields and Crews-Dezurn have crossed paths before, back in 2016, when they both made their professional debuts. Shields emerged victorious then, and she's been on an unstoppable winning streak ever since, solidifying her status as the most decorated woman in boxing history and the only female fighter to hold championship belts in five weight classes.
There was a moment of concern during the weigh-in on Saturday, February 21st, when Crews-Dezurn took a tumble into a table, raising doubts about her ability to compete. However, the fight promoter has confirmed that both fighters are ready and raring to go.
Stay tuned for live updates from the main event and all 10 undercard fights. We'll keep you in the loop with all the action, drama, and unexpected twists that only boxing can deliver.
And this is the part most people miss... Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield made a surprise appearance in the ring before the Shields fight, but it seems she was there to support, not to step into the ring herself. Her energetic greeting of "what up doe!" was met with a thunderous ovation from the audience.
In other news, Atif Oberlton, after his victory over Joseph George, expressed his relief that George was okay. George had collapsed between rounds, appearing to lose consciousness, but he eventually rose and was taken out of the ring. Oberlton offered a gracious rematch, highlighting the respect and sportsmanship that boxing is known for.
The fight between light heavyweights Oberlton and George was a short but intense affair. After the first round, George collapsed in his corner, causing a tense moment as medical staff attended to him. It's unclear what caused the collapse, but an incidental headbutt during the round may have played a part. Oberlton was declared the winner, but his celebration was muted, as he seemed more concerned about George's well-being.
There's a new women's light heavyweight world champion, and her name is Danielle Perkins. In a thrilling sixth-round knockout, Perkins landed a powerful hook on Che Kenneally's mouth, drawing blood and sending Kenneally to the canvas. Kenneally attempted to rise, but the referee called an end to the fight, awarding the victory to Perkins.
Shields, the reigning champion, has arrived at the arena, ready to put on a show for the Detroit crowd. Her walkout is scheduled for the highly anticipated 11 p.m. ET slot.
In other fights, Pryce Taylor dominated James Evans, recording two knockdowns in the fourth round. Despite Evans' resilience, the referee called the fight in Taylor's favor after Evans took a knee in the fifth round. Taylor's confident performance and swagger were on full display.
Sardius Simmons, the Flint heavyweight, defeated Dylan Potter in a four-round bout, showcasing his skill and determination.
Edith Soledad Matthysse, the Argentinian fighter, pulled off an upset victory over Samantha Worthington via TKO in the ninth round.
Lance Smith defeated Jorge Omar Vizcarrondo via TKO in the third round, solidifying his dominance in the junior welterweight division.
Jasmine Hampton, the flyweight, defeated Agustina Solange Vazquez via TKO in the fifth round, showcasing her power and precision.
Savannah Tini, the junior welterweight, defeated the taller Vada Masiokaite in a unanimous decision, proving that size isn't everything in the ring.
Jaquan McElroy, the middleweight, defeated Andre Johnson Jr. in a unanimous decision, showcasing his skill and strategy.
Shannel Butler, the featherweight, defeated Danila Ramos in an unanimous decision, kicking off the night with a dominant performance.
The highly anticipated main event between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn is scheduled for 11 p.m. ET. The fight will take place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, with the broadcast starting at 8 p.m. ET. To catch this historic fight, you'll need to tune in to DAZN, which offers pay-per-view fights for $44.99 per month.
So, who do you think will emerge victorious in this heavyweight showdown? Will Shields continue her dominant reign, or will Crews-Dezurn pull off an upset? Let us know your predictions and thoughts in the comments below! We want to hear from all the boxing enthusiasts out there.
