Claressa Shields is prepared to fight Cris Cyborg in 2025, dismissing Cyborg’s call-outs as mere talk and expressing confidence in her boxing superiority while acknowledging Cyborg’s advantage in MMA.
Claressa Shields is gearing up for a potential showdown with Cris Cyborg in 2025. Once training partners, their relationship has soured over the years. In 2024, Cyborg called out Shields for a possible clash, whether in the boxing ring or PFL cage.
Shields isn’t buying it, though. "She wants the clout," she said on the Pound 4 Pound podcast. "No one’s checking for Cris Cyborg anymore. She’s yesterday’s news, and I’m the one making waves now."
Shields didn’t hold back: "When we sparred, I kicked her ass. Easy. She looked like a deer in headlights." She then challenged Cyborg directly: "Come fight me! I don’t get what the holdup is."
A two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-weight world champion, Shields is at the top of her game in boxing. At 29, she’s even dabbled in MMA, earning a split decision victory over Kelsey DeSantis earlier this year.
Cyborg, on the other hand, boasts an impressive MMA resume and has recently ventured into boxing with a 4-0 record. Their backgrounds suggest Shields would dominate in boxing, while Cyborg would have the edge in MMA.
Yet, Shields admits she wouldn’t face Cyborg in an MMA bout. "She’s got too much experience," Shields acknowledged. "I’ve barely scratched the surface with jiu-jitsu."
Boxing feels more balanced to Shields. "In boxing, it’s just your left and right," she explained. "MMA? It’s everything—elbows, knees, kicks… it’s overwhelming."
Despite everything, Shields believes she’d win in a street fight against Cyborg. Will we ever see that? Probably not, but a boxing match could be on the horizon.
After defeating Larissa Pacheco in PFL, Cyborg lacks clear opponents. Meanwhile, Shields is open to fighting her post her next bout.
"I’m entertaining it," Shields remarked. "Why should I fear Cris Cyborg? I’m bigger, stronger—and better—in a boxing ring."
Shields plans to fight at heavyweight on Feb. 2 in Flint, Michigan. She cheekily adds that Cyborg can get her shot on Feb. 3. Simple as that.