Detroit, December 9, 2025
Claressa Shields will defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchon Crews-Dezurn on February 22, 2026, in Detroit. This rematch highlights Shields’ impressive return following her recent promotional deal and follows their first encounter where Shields emerged victorious. With both fighters showcasing their skills, this bout is generating excitement among fans, especially with the looming possibility of a future match against Savannah Marshall.
Detroit, Michigan – Claressa Shields is set to defend her undisputed heavyweight championship in a rematch against Franchon Crews-Dezurn on February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. This bout marks Shields’ return to the ring following her recent $8 million promotional deal.
Details of the Upcoming Rematch
The upcoming fight will headline a Dazn card at Little Caesars Arena, the home of the NBA’s Pistons and NHL’s Red Wings, where Shields attracted a near-sellout crowd for her most recent fight last July.
Background of the Fighters
Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) and Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs) first met 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. Shields won a four-round unanimous decision that night in Las Vegas.
Shields’ Recent Achievements
On February 2, 2025, Shields faced Danielle Perkins for the undisputed heavyweight championship at Dort Financial Center in Flint, Michigan. She scored the fight’s lone knockdown in the waning seconds of the tenth round and won the bout by unanimous decision, with the judges’ scorecards reading 97-92, 99-90, and 100-89—all in favor of Shields. This victory made Shields the only three-division undisputed champion, male or female, of the four-belt era.
Crews-Dezurn’s Recent Activities
Crews-Dezurn, who went on to become an undisputed champion at super-middleweight in 2022 before losing it to Britain’s Savannah Marshall, will move up to heavyweight for the rematch.
Shields’ Promotional Deal
Shields’ return comes months after she chose to remain with the promoter who guided her from her debut onward, finalizing a minimum-guaranteed $8 million multi-fight agreement with Salita Promotions in partnership with Wynn Records. The deal followed a brief spell in which Shields explored free agency after her title defense against Lani Daniels in July. She ultimately opted to stay, saying the new arrangement offered the scale and visibility she has long pushed for in women’s boxing and aligned with her broader ambitions outside the ring.
Potential Rematch with Savannah Marshall
Savannah Marshall has expressed a desire for a rematch with Shields, having also lost to her at middleweight in 2022. To that end, promoters Boxxer are attempting to add her to the undercard of Natasha Jonas-Lauren Price on March 7 at London’s Royal Albert Hall, so that a future rematch can be built.
Conclusion
The upcoming rematch between Shields and Crews-Dezurn is highly anticipated, as both fighters have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination in their careers. Fans can look forward to an exciting bout that promises to showcase the best of women’s boxing.
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 was the outcome of the first fight between Shields and Crews-Dezurn?
In their first encounter in 2016, Shields won a four-round unanimous decision against Crews-Dezurn.
What is Shields’ recent achievement in the heavyweight division?
Shields became the undisputed heavyweight champion on February 2, 2025, after defeating Danielle Perkins by unanimous decision.
Has Savannah Marshall expressed interest in fighting Shields again?
Yes, Savannah Marshall has expressed a desire for a rematch with Shields, having also lost to her at middleweight in 2022.
Key Features of the Upcoming Rematch
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | February 22, 2026 |
| Location | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan |
| Fighters | Claressa Shields vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn |
| Shields’ Record | 17-0, 3 KOs |
| Crews-Dezurn’s Record | 10-2, 2 KOs |
| First Fight Outcome | Shields won by unanimous decision in 2016 |
| Shields’ Recent Achievement | Undisputed heavyweight champion as of February 2, 2025 |
| Marshall’s Interest | Expressed desire for a rematch with Shields |
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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.
