Shields Sweeps Past Crews-Dezurn To Retain Undisputed Heavyweight Title
Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Claressa Shields defeated Franchon Crews-Dezurn to remain the undisputed heavyweight champion: 100-90 (x3).
The rivalry dated back to November 2016, when both women made their professional debuts on the undercard of the first Ward-Kovalev fight. Shields walked away with a unanimous decision victory (40-36 on all cards). Since that debut, Shields achieved undisputed status in three weight classes—junior middleweight, middleweight, and heavyweight. Crews-Dezurn achieved undisputed status at super middleweight and currently holds the WBA and WBC titles. However, it as Shields who came out on top once again.
The early rounds saw the 38-year-old Crews-Dezurn attempt to turn the fight into a brawl. Using her strength, she pressed forward, hoping to smother Shields’ speed. However, the champion’s composure never wavered. Shields utilized superior footwork to pivot out of danger, making the challenger miss and pay with sharp counters.
The third round saw the champion take full control. Shields unleashed a flurry of combinations that rattled Crews-Dezurn, shifting the momentum for good. The age and conditioning difference became undeniable. While the “Heavy Hitting Diva” began to flag under the relentless pace, the 30-year-old Shields appeared fresh, powering through to the final bell with ease.
Credit: Lon Horwedel – FR170538 AP
Post-Fight
“I felt like I had to take my time. Franchon hits hard, she’s tough, and you have to be tricky with her. She was trying to call the upset. She’s the heavy-hitting diva, and that’s one of the best fights I’ve been in. I had to watch my ass every round. I wanted to make sure I got her timing, her jab. Franchon has a really good stick. When she puts it out there, the right hand comes after it.
“But I showcased my skills, body shots. She just wouldn’t go. I thought she was getting ready to go in Round 6 or 7. I wasn’t punching enough maybe in 8 or 9. “I can beat these girls tremendously. I try hard to get the knockout. I love y’all. Love to share the ring with Shadasia [Green]. She’s at 168 [pounds], I’d go down and fight against her. Franchon still has belts at 168. So you might see Shields vs. Crews-Dezurn 3,” Shields said
Full Card
Claressa Shields defeated Franchon Crews-Dezurn to become the undisputed heavyweight champion: 100-90 (X3)
Atif Oberlton won by a 1st-round knockout against Joseph George after George collapsed in the ring.
Danielle Perkins won the WBA light heavyweight title by stopping Che Kenneally in the 6th round.
Pryce Taylor defeated James Evans with a technical knockout (TKO) in the 5th round.
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