Shields-CrewsDezurn Heavyweight Rematch Set for 2026

Claressa Shields, the undisputed women's heavyweight champion, will defend her title against Franchon CrewsDezurn in a highly anticipated rematch on February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The bout, announced this week, marks the first fight under Shields' new eight-million-dollar, multifight promotional deal and revives a rivalry that began nearly a decade ago in the boxers' professional debuts.

Shields, who holds a perfect 17-0 record with three knockouts, first defeated CrewsDezurn by unanimous decision in a four-round bout on November 19, 2016, during the undercard of Andre Ward's victory over Sergey Kovalev. Both fighters entered that match as amateurs transitioning to the pros, with Shields fresh off winning consecutive Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016, the first American boxer to achieve the feat. CrewsDezurn, now 10-2 with two knockouts, has since rebuilt her career to claim undisputed status at super middleweight before moving up in weight classes.

The upcoming fight carries personal stakes for both athletes. "In 2016, we went four rounds," Shields said. "This fight will pick up from round five. I plan on putting Franchon on her back and leaving with...