Instagram/@claressashields
Shakur Stevenson declared: Those that are ranked so-called female greatest of all time should be put to an end by Claressa Shields. The Olympic gold medalist and two-division world champion took to social media sometime recently to declare Shields the undisputed GOAT-A Great One-All-time-a heated discussion that came on like wildfire among boxers and boxing fans. This announcement was accompanied by an energetic DAZN Boxing-created image of a blowing moment from one of Shields’ latest fights: the golden girl on top raining brutal blows on her opponent.
Advertisement
The dominating moment caught on frame deserves ultimate fame: The gold-clad Shields landing a sharp and corroborative boxing term for “precision” blow upon her opponent, who was clad in black with white gloves. Stevenson’s tweet was overlaid digitally onto this picture, further underlining his point, while a circular inset of Stevenson mid-commentary gave a second boost to the point. The almost tangible energy emitted from the crowd was awe-inspiring, setting the pace for what is deemed by many a boxing masterclass.
But just in true GOAT style, there were opposing opinions. So social media comment section turned into a war zone of all opinions: Some supported Stevenson’s claim fiercely; others strongly opposed it. One user maintained that while Shields is great, her skills were “mediocre at best” when compared to Irish legend Katie Taylor, whom he believed had a much more impressive resume.
Taylor’s supporters retaliated, stating, “Kotya Taylor is the greatest woman fighter ever if yk boxing,” and others concurred and mentioned Lucia Rijker as another candidate for the title. Defenders of Shields said she was “unstoppable” and that she put women’s boxing on her back: “She’s gonna retire undefeated,” another said in all seriousness, ridiculing any thought that current contenders stood even remotely close to threatening Shields.
Others lightened the mood with funny remarks. One person cynically remarked on the evasiveness of her opponent: “Daniels ran all night didn’t want to engage at all”. In contrast, another praised the sportsmanship while calling on someone to match Shields’ aggression. The humor was back with a vengeance when someone said that for once “needs training” because she looked at least somewhat strong, even if she weren’t exactly at Shields’ level.
But amidst the fiery exchanges there was one thing-the pride of supporters. “AFRICAN POWER!!! Mother Land is proud of you” was the cry of one fan, while another joined with a loud “CHAMP!!!” Regardless of whether or not the boxing world can fully agree with the eyes of Stevenson, the imprint of Shields cannot be doubted. She has shaped the sport-women’s boxing-with her dominance in the ring, with her stubborn belief in herself, and with the divisive discussions she sets off.
Advertisement
However, controversy is invariably shadowed by greatness, as the comments evidence. But for now, at least in Shakur Stevenson’s eyes and far beyond, Claressa Shields sits on the throne of glory.