Claressa Shields, the most accomplished women’s amateur boxer ever, has won two gold medals, become a two-division undisputed champion, and amongst many other achievements. She’s arguably the greatest women’s boxer ever, earning her the nickname “The GWOAT.” So, when she shares her thoughts on the 2024 Paris Olympics, it’s worth paying attention.
Shields will look to once again make history as she fights WBC women’s heavyweight titleholder Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse on July 27 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, also vying for the vacant WBO light heavyweight title.
Shields (14-0, 2 KOs), 29, of Flint, Michigan, recently shared her thoughts on the current Olympic team. She expressed support for Jajaira Gonzalez, with whom she has a close bond, and mentioned Morrelle McCane as a notable fighter on the women’s side of USA Boxing heading into the Olympic Games
“Jajaira Gonzalez is the best; she's like a sister to me,” Shields told SportsHandle.com. “We've traveled the world together. I believe her and Morrelle McCane had some of the best fights back in 2016 to make the Olympics.”
Gonzalez competes in the women's 60 kg division, while McCane fights at 66 kg.
Shields cited Gonzalez’s extensive amateur experience as a key factor in her chances for a gold medal.
“She's been in the ring with the best, like Queen Underwood and the girls who are now pros doing big things,” Shields said. “I believe Jajaira has the best chance at the gold medal because of her experience.”
Shields also credited USA Boxing’s strong investment in international competition and the tough demands it takes to compete and stay on the team.
“The USA boxing team is one of the toughest to be on for the Olympics,” Shields said. “They travel the world all year, facing different countries, win, lose, or draw, gaining valuable experience.”
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