In a sporting world accustomed to the rhythm of boxing gloves meeting leather, Claressa Shields. The undefeated middleweight boxing champion hailing from Flint is about to trade her gloves for something a bit more multifaceted. The mixed martial arts cage. A tumultuous journey awaits her as she steps back into the MMA arena on February 24th, squaring off against Kelsey De Santis in the lightweight division (155 lbs). The big question lingers – can she conquer the cage as she does the ring?
Behind the Scenes of a Setback
The last time Shields graced the MMA scene was in October 2021, facing Abigail Montes in a split-decision loss. It was a setback, a hiccup in her otherwise illustrious career. Fans and critics alike wondered if the queen of the ring could truly hold her own in the unpredictable world of mixed martial arts.
In an exclusive interview, Shields pulled no punches when discussing the challenges of transitioning from boxing to MMA. The intensity in her voice matched the anticipation surrounding her return. “It’s not boxing,” Shields asserted, acknowledging the unique demands the cage presents. “It’s definitely harder,” she added, sending ripples through the combat sports community. The raw admission of the sport’s difficulty from someone with a pristine boxing record turned heads.
The Grind and Growth
Acknowledging the uphill battle, Shields peeled back the curtain on her grueling MMA training. Physically and mentally demanding, her current camp has been nothing short of extreme. “This camp has been extremely hard,” she revealed, underlining the stark contrast between the two worlds she straddles. However, amidst the hardships, Shields radiates confidence. “I’ve learned a lot,” she declared. “I know I’ll be better inside the cage than what I was last time.” The assurance in her voice echoes the relentless spirit that has defined her boxing career.
Locked in 💪🏾 not ashamed to say I had went thru a rough time. But God! Yes… i’m proud of my fat ssa 😂! Y’all I had let myself go for months. Not eating healthy, fighting depression, hormonal issues, not drinking my water & not working out. In October I defeated depression and… pic.twitter.com/yQdDONNPkb
— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) February 15, 2024
The Comeback Beyond the Cage
The journey from dominating the ring to embracing the octagon has not been an easy one for Shields. Her upcoming return to the cage after almost two years signifies not just a fight against an opponent but a fight against doubts and naysayers. Shields isn’t backing down; she’s stepping up. Determined to prove herself to the fans and, more importantly, to herself.
Knocking Out More Than Opponents
Beyond the physical challenges, Shields unveiled a personal battle that has fueled her comeback. A bout against depression. In a poignant social media post, she shared the highs and lows of her journey. Shields confessed to a period of depression following her fight against Maricela Cornejo, leading to unhealthy habits and weight gain.
“I had let myself go for months,” Shields candidly admitted, shedding light on her struggles with mental health, hormonal issues, and neglecting self-care. However, Shields, the warrior, did not surrender. In October, she emerged victorious not just over her opponents in the ring but over the shadows that haunted her off it. Her transformation is documented in a revealing photo. Is not just a physical one but a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.
Redemption is the only thing in @Claressashields‘ mind in her return to the SmartCage
▶️ Follow Claressa Shields’ road back to the PFL SmartCage on the latest episode Fight Camp Confidential is now out on the PFL MMA YouTube Channel
🔗 https://t.co/CQ9mkwaxrh pic.twitter.com/FNBK4pUddv
— PFL (@PFLMMA) February 19, 2024
Mia’s Thoughts
As the date of her MMA comeback draws near, Claressa Shields’ story serves as a rallying cry for fans and aspiring athletes alike. It’s a reminder that even champions face challenges beyond the spotlight. battles that go beyond the physical realm. Shields’ openness about her struggles, and her journey from depression to dominance, adds an emotional layer to her impending return. The cage beckons, and Shields, with fire in her eyes and a story that transcends sports, is ready to answer the call. Will she emerge victorious in the cage and over the narratives that seek to confine her? Time will tell, and on February 24th, all eyes will be on Claressa Shields.