This video can not be played 'I wouldn't wish what I went through on my worst enemy' Boxing world champion Claressa Shields says she is "done" with mixed martial arts after competing in three fights with the PFL. Shields, 30, is unbeaten in boxing and amultiple-weight undisputed champion,but has fought sporadically in MMA since 2021, achieving a 2-1 record. Her last MMA bout was a points win over Kelsey de Santis and the American says she will now be focusing on boxing. "It was fun, but I don't have enough time to train for it. It takes six to eight months just to get ready to defend takedowns. Even though I got a lot better and put in the time, I broke my arm twice. It was fun, and I enjoyed every fight I did," Shields toldAriel Helwani,external. "I'm already great in boxing, and to be great like that in MMA, I would have to train consistently for at least three to four years. "I did really well in MMA. It was fun, but it was too hard." Shields took a two-and-a-half-year break between her second and third MMA fights. The Michigan native recently added the undisputed heavyweight title to her world title collection. Shields has become world champion in five different weight classes and is undefeated in 16 fights. The Olympic gold medalist said she did have ambitions of becoming an MMA world champion, but admitted her family were keen for her to focus on boxing. "My family never wanted me to do it," she added. "I did it because I wanted to prove a point, and I proved that point to myself three times, though you could say twice because I won twice."
Boxing world champion Shields 'done' with MMA
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Claressa Shields Announces Retirement from Mixed Martial Arts to Focus on Boxing"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Claressa Shields, the renowned boxing world champion, has announced her decision to step away from mixed martial arts (MMA) after a brief stint in the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The 30-year-old athlete, who has maintained an unbeaten record in boxing and holds multiple undisputed titles across different weight classes, has participated in three MMA fights since 2021, finishing with a record of 2 wins and 1 loss. Her most recent fight ended with a victory against Kelsey de Santis, but Shields has expressed that the rigorous training required for MMA has proven to be too demanding. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, she elaborated on the challenges she faced, including the time commitment necessary to prepare for MMA, which she estimated to be six to eight months just to become proficient at defending against takedowns. Despite her enjoyment of the sport, Shields emphasized that the physical toll, including two broken arms, has influenced her choice to return her focus solely to boxing.
Shields has achieved remarkable success in her boxing career, recently adding the undisputed heavyweight title to her accolades, which include championships in five different weight classes and an undefeated record of 16 fights. Although she initially had aspirations of becoming an MMA world champion, family concerns played a significant role in her decision to refocus on boxing. Shields revealed that her family was apprehensive about her involvement in MMA, and she ultimately pursued it to prove a point to herself. Reflecting on her MMA journey, she acknowledged that while she had fun and performed well in her fights, the difficulty of transitioning to a new sport was a significant barrier. With her boxing career continuing to flourish, Shields aims to build on her achievements and solidify her legacy in the sport she excels at the most.
TruthLens AI Analysis
Claressa Shields' announcement regarding her decision to step away from mixed martial arts (MMA) offers significant insights into her career trajectory and the broader implications for the sports community. As a multiple-weight undisputed boxing champion, Shields has made a name for herself in boxing, and her experiences in MMA provide a unique perspective on the challenges faced by athletes transitioning between different combat sports.
Athletic Transition and Challenges
Shields has expressed the difficulties she encountered during her MMA journey, emphasizing the intense training required to compete effectively. Her statement about needing "six to eight months just to get ready to defend takedowns" illustrates the commitment and preparation necessary for success in MMA, which differs greatly from boxing. This highlights the rigorous demands placed on athletes who attempt to excel in multiple disciplines.
Focus on Boxing
Her decision to refocus on boxing, especially after achieving an undisputed heavyweight title, indicates a strategic career move. Shields is already recognized as one of the best in boxing, and her return to this sport may be aimed at solidifying her legacy. By stating that she is "already great in boxing," Shields reinforces her identity as a boxer and signals to her supporters that she is prioritizing her established strengths over the uncertainties of MMA.
Family Influence and Personal Goals
Shields' mention of her family's concerns regarding her MMA career sheds light on the personal dynamics influencing her professional decisions. This aspect may resonate with fans who appreciate the importance of family support in an athlete's career. Her quest to "prove a point" reflects a personal motivation that could inspire others, yet it also suggests a potential tension between personal ambition and familial expectations.
Public Perception and Fan Base
This news may create a mixed reaction among fans. While some may view her departure from MMA as a return to her roots, others might see it as a missed opportunity for cross-discipline competition. Shields' remarks about the fun she had in her MMA fights can foster a sense of appreciation for her willingness to try something new, possibly attracting a broader audience to her boxing career.
Economic and Industry Implications
The ramifications of Shields' decision might extend beyond her personal career. For the MMA and boxing industries, her choice could influence how fighters approach transitions between sports. This could lead to discussions about training methodologies and the support systems necessary for athletes in combat sports.
Stock Market and Investment Considerations
While the direct impact of this news on stock markets or specific investments may be limited, it does highlight the growing intersection between sports and media. Companies involved in sports marketing, management, and broadcasting may take note of the increased interest in cross-discipline athletes, potentially influencing their business strategies.
Global Context and Power Dynamics
Shields’ prominence as a world champion in multiple weight classes places her in the larger narrative of women's empowerment in sports. Her experiences contribute to ongoing conversations about gender equality and representation in combat sports, which are increasingly relevant in today's social climate.
Artificial Intelligence in Reporting
There is a possibility that AI tools were used in crafting this article, especially in summarizing quotes and structuring the content. AI could aid in identifying key themes from Shields' statements, ensuring that the narrative remains engaging and coherent for readers. However, the human touch in conveying the emotional aspects of her journey is evident, suggesting a balance between technology and traditional journalism.
This analysis reveals that while the news focuses on Shields' personal career decisions, it also touches on broader themes such as the challenges of athletic transitions, family influences, and the evolving landscape of combat sports. The overall reliability of the report appears solid, as it is based on direct quotes and personal insights from a well-known athlete.