Detroit, Michigan, December 9, 2025
Claressa Shields will defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in a highly anticipated rematch at Little Caesars Arena. This bout, taking place on February 22, marks Shields’ return after a significant promotional deal and showcases the continuing rise of women’s boxing. Their last encounter was nearly a decade ago, and both fighters have grown significantly in their careers since then. The rematch not only highlights their rivalry but also the potential for increased visibility and investment in women’s sports.
Detroit, Michigan – Claressa Shields is poised to defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in an eagerly awaited rematch scheduled for February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. This bout marks Shields’ return to the ring following her recent $8 million promotional deal. The fight is set to be the headline event of a DAZN card, enhancing Detroit’s status as a venue for major sporting events.
The significance of this rematch extends beyond the squared circle. It represents not only a clash of champion athletes but also the enduring resilience and spirit of the local community that supports such events. Sports, particularly boxing, often provide a lens through which we can view broader social dynamics, and the opportunity to host significant matches can bolster economic endeavors in the region. With entrepreneurs actively fueling growth and innovation in the area, events like these can draw attention, much-needed investment, and tourism to the city.
### Details of the Upcoming Rematch
The upcoming fight is a pivotal moment in both Shields and Crews-Dezurn’s careers. Their last encounter dates back nearly ten years when they faced each other during their professional debuts, undercarding Andre Ward’s victory over Sergey Kovalev in 2016. Shields came out on top that night, winning by unanimous decision. This rematch not only rekindles their competitive fire but also reflects the growth and evolution both fighters have undergone since then.
### Shields’ Recent Achievements
Claressa Shields has established herself as a formidable force in boxing, becoming the first undisputed women’s heavyweight champion in history after defeating Danielle Perkins in February 2025. Her multi-faceted success in five different weight classes, paired with her double Olympic gold medals, underscores her status as one of the premier athletes in the sport today. This achievement highlights the potential for women’s sports, which have seen increasing recognition and investment in recent years.
### Crews-Dezurn’s Career Highlights
Franchon Crews-Dezurn has also made her mark in boxing, having captured the undisputed super-middleweight title in 2022 before vacating it to Savannah Marshall. By moving up to heavyweight for this rematch, she illustrates her willingness to challenge herself at higher stakes. This strategic shift reflects a broader trend in the boxing world where athletes are seeking to expand their horizons and capitalize on opportunities for greater success.
### Background on the Fighters
Both Shields and Crews-Dezurn have a rich history together, and their professional journeys have intertwined significantly since their debut. Throughout the years, both have championed women’s boxing and contributed to its rising popularity on both national and local stages. Their upcoming bout promises to deliver an exhilarating display of skill and determination, further advancing the narrative of women’s achievements in sports.
### Shields’ Promotional Deal
Shields’ return gains additional importance following her decision to remain with Salita Promotions, which has been instrumental in her career since its onset. This new $8 million deal marks a significant investment in her potential future bouts, as it secures her presence in the sport for multiple fights ahead, much to the delight of her fans and the local community.
### Future Prospects
Looking beyond the rematch, Shields’ promoter has expressed a keen interest in organizing a potential showdown between Shields and Savannah Marshall within the next 12 to 18 months in the United States. Such high-profile matchups would not only generate excitement among fans but also contribute to the growing landscape of women’s boxing, increasing visibility and opportunity in a historically male-dominated sport.
### Conclusion
The rematch between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn is set to be a historic event that underscores both fighters’ remarkable journeys and the advancements within women’s boxing. As fans look forward to this exciting bout, they also participate in a broader narrative of community pride, economic growth, and the determination of local entrepreneurs. Those in Detroit and beyond are called to support local talent and engage in the burgeoning scene of women’s sports.
FAQ
What is the date and location of the upcoming rematch between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn?
The rematch is scheduled for February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.
What is the significance of this rematch?
This bout marks Shields’ return to the ring following her recent $8 million promotional deal and is a chance for both fighters to settle their longstanding rivalry.
What are Claressa Shields’ recent achievements?
Shields became the first undisputed women’s heavyweight boxing world champion in February 2025 by defeating Danielle Perkins in Flint, Michigan.
What is Franchon Crews-Dezurn’s background?
Crews-Dezurn became an undisputed champion at super-middleweight in 2022 before losing it to Britain’s Savannah Marshall and will move up to heavyweight for the rematch against Shields.
What is the history between Shields and Crews-Dezurn?
Shields and Crews-Dezurn first faced each other nearly a decade ago when they made their professional debuts against each other on the undercard of Andre Ward’s victory over Sergey Kovalev in 2016, with Shields winning a four-round unanimous decision that night in Las Vegas.
Key Features
| Date of Rematch | February 22, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Location | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan |
| Fighters | Claressa Shields vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn |
| Shields’ Recent Achievement | First undisputed women’s heavyweight boxing world champion in February 2025 |
| Crews-Dezurn’s Background | Undisputed super-middleweight champion in 2022 before losing to Savannah Marshall |
| Historical Context | First professional bout between Shields and Crews-Dezurn in 2016 |
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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.
