Detroit, December 9, 2025
Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall are eyeing a potential rematch in 2026, fueled by Shields’ recent $8 million contract in women’s boxing. Shields aims to fight multiple times while Marshall has transitioned successfully into MMA. This anticipated bout not only showcases their athletic achievements but also signifies growing investments in women’s sports and community engagement. Both fighters express enthusiasm for renewing their rivalry, promising excitement for fans and potentially boosting visibility for female athletes in combat sports.
Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall Eye Potential Rematch in 2026
Detroit continues to make headlines in the world of sports with the exciting possibility of a rematch between two boxing and MMA champions, Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall, set for 2026. This potential matchup not only highlights the athletic prowess of these fighters but also underscores the recent financial successes in women’s combat sports, reflecting the resilience and determination of entrepreneurs in this field. The ongoing negotiations for this rematch could also symbolize broader narratives about sports investments in the community and the potential for economic growth through enhanced visibility of women’s sports.
Claressa Shields, an iconic figure in women’s boxing, recently secured an historic $8 million multi-year deal, asserting her influence in the sport. Meanwhile, Savannah Marshall has successfully ventured into MMA, securing her own victories and looking to cement her legacy within this realm. As both athletes eye the future, their potential rematch is gaining significant traction and anticipation within the boxing community.
Claressa Shields’ Recent Developments
In November 2025, Claressa Shields signed a landmark contract with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records for $8 million, which stands as the richest deal in women’s boxing history. This contract not only includes a $3 million signing bonus but guarantees substantial earnings across future fights. Shields envisions competing two to three times in 2026, while also planning a temporary hiatus for personal milestones, including starting a family. Her commitment to furthering her career in boxing remains strong, with an intention to face Marshall among others.
Savannah Marshall’s MMA Career
Savannah Marshall transitioned to mixed martial arts with considerable success, earning a first-round TKO victory in her debut at PFL Europe 2 in June 2024. Following this achievement, she has publicly expressed her aspiration to compete against Shields again, specifically in the PFL arena, where she aims to heighten her competitive legacy. Marshall’s focus and successful debut suggest a growing momentum in her career that could set the stage for a significant rematch with Shields.
Potential Rematch in 2026
The dialogue surrounding a rematch in 2026 is vibrant, with both fighters showing interest in facing each other again. Shields’ impressive new contract and her outlined plans for multiple fights suggest that a clash with Marshall could become a reality. Meanwhile, Marshall’s MMA accomplishments bolster her appeal as a formidable opponent for Shields. Ongoing discussions between each fighter’s team highlight the enthusiasm surrounding this potential event.
Background
The initial rivalry between Shields and Marshall dates back to October 2022, when Shields claimed victory over Marshall by unanimous decision, earning her the title of undisputed middleweight champion. As Marshall transitions successfully into MMA, the possibility of renewing their rivalry offers much intrigue and excitement to fans. Both athletes are keen on further establishing their careers, aiming to capture the support and attention of a growing audience for women in combat sports.
Key Takeaways
The potential rematch between Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall in 2026 symbolizes not just personal achievements for the fighters but also a step forward in the visibility of women’s sports. The interest surrounding this event reflects broader trends in economic growth and investment in female athletics, consistent with a growing recognition of the need for equitable opportunities in sports.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fighters Involved | Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall |
| Proposed Date | 2026 |
| Event Type | Potential boxing or MMA rematch |
| Current Status | Discussions ongoing; no official announcement |
| Shields’ Recent Developments | Signed $8 million multi-year deal; plans to fight two to three times in 2026 |
| Marshall’s Recent Developments | Successful MMA debut; expressed interest in facing Shields in the cage |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of a potential rematch between Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall?
Both fighters have expressed interest in a potential rematch in 2026. Shields has signed an $8 million multi-year deal and plans to fight two to three times in 2026, while Marshall has shown interest in facing Shields in the cage following her successful MMA debut. Discussions are ongoing to determine the feasibility of this matchup.
What are Claressa Shields’ plans for 2026?
Shields plans to fight two to three times in 2026, take a year off to have a child, and retire by age 38. She has expressed interest in potential matchups with fellow boxers, including Savannah Marshall.
What is Savannah Marshall’s MMA record?
Marshall made her MMA debut in June 2024 at PFL Europe 2, securing a first-round TKO victory over Mirela Vargas.
When did Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall first fight?
Shields and Marshall first fought in October 2022, with Shields defeating Marshall by unanimous decision to become the undisputed middleweight champion.
What is the significance of the $8 million deal for Claressa Shields?
The $8 million multi-year deal signed by Shields in November 2025 is the richest contract in women’s boxing history. It includes a $3 million signing bonus and guarantees $8 million across multiple fights, marking a significant milestone for women in sports.
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
