Claressa Shields vs Mikaela Mayer has a “very realistic” chance of happening this year and could be the “biggest fight in women’s boxing”, says promoter Dmitriy Salita.
Shields can resume her dominance of the sport when she defends her undisputed world heavyweight titles against Franchon Crews Dezurn in Detroit on Sunday.
If the five-weight world champion emerges victorious, she would be open to a fight against fellow America Mayer, who has claimed world titles in three divisions.
Salita, who promotes Shields, told Sky Sports: “Right now, we’re fully focused on February 22nd – a major rematch against Franchon Crews Dezurn.
“It’s one of the most significant fights in boxing and Claressa understands the magnitude of the moment.
“That said, assuming she’s victorious, I believe a Shields-Mayer fight is very realistic this year. Claressa has repeatedly moved up and down in weight to make the biggest fights possible.
“Her track record shows that she wants to make the biggest fights, and both sides have expressed the intention to have a serious, meaningful conversation about making it happen.”
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Claressa Shields has delivered dominant victories since she turned professional
Mayer has also expressed her willingness to make the Shields fight, telling Sky Sports: “I’ve always been about making the biggest and best fights possible.
“The fights the fans want to see and fights that continue to grow women’s boxing. Right now that’s me vs Claressa Shields.
“Let’s get the fight made and give the world the greatest women’s boxing match they’ve ever seen.”
Shields and Mayer would have to agree a suitable weight class as Mayer last fought at super-welterweight while unifying the WBC, WBO and WBA titles with a win over Mary Spencer in October.
“Yes, it’s absolutely a fight both sides have interest in exploring, said Salita. “The only real question is weight, but it’s not an unrealistic hurdle.
“From a global standpoint, it’s arguably the biggest fight in women’s boxing. It’s meaningful, it’s competitive, and it captures the attention of both US and UK audiences.
“Those are the types of fights Claressa has consistently pursued throughout her career.”
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Mikaela Mayer became unified super-welterweight champion after a commanding unanimous points victory over Mary Spencer in Montreal. Coverage courtesy of Top Rank Boxing.
Shields signed an $8m (£6.1m) promotional contract with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records in November last year.
The two-time Olympic gold medallist has worked with Salita since the early stages of her pro career and he has predicted even more career-defining victories for the Michigan-born fighter.
“Claressa is a generational talent, and I’m honoured she has chosen to build her legacy with us,” said Salita.
“What separates her isn’t just her skill – it’s her willingness to take risks, to move across divisions, and her star power and personality to headline major arenas while carrying the sport forward.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Watch highlights of the epic between Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall in a fight-of-the-year contender!
“As a former fighter inspired by HBO, Showtime, and the great Sky broadcasts of the past, I believe in blending what made boxing powerful then with the tools of today.
‘Shields has reshaped the landscape of boxing’
“That means elite, meaningful matchmaking – but also modern storytelling. We build fighters through authentic narratives, digital engagement, music, culture, and deep community connection.
“We are proudly fighter-first. That means giving athletes the platform, resources, and freedom to grow into global stars.
“Claressa’s journey with us reflects that vision. Her first fight under our banner was in a venue of roughly 1,000 people. Now she headlines a near 20,000-seat arena in Detroit, generating a significant seven-figure gate.
Claressa Shields is promoted by Dmitriy Salita and Wynn Records (pic courtesy of Salita promotions/Stephanie Tapp)
“Our partnership with Wynn Records has evolved into something special – integrating music and culture in a way that elevates the entire event. Once again, she will be walked to the ring by a major superstar, amplifying her brand and the spectacle.
“Her fight is a statement. Detroit is back as a boxing hub of world class boxing. Women can headline, sell out arenas, command major purses, and inspire the next generation.
“A young girl from Flint with a dream has reshaped the landscape of boxing – and we’re just getting started.”
Watch Caroline Dubois vs Terri Harper live on Sky Sports on Sunday April 5. Tickets available here
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: skynews.com
