Detroit, Michigan, December 9, 2025
Claressa Shields is set to defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in a rematch that highlights the growth of women’s boxing. This fight, happening at Little Caesars Arena, marks Shields’ return following a landmark promotional deal. Since their first meeting in 2016, both fighters have made significant strides in their careers, with Shields being a three-division champion and Crews-Dezurn moving up to heavyweight. The event emphasizes the evolving landscape of women’s sports and the ongoing push for greater visibility and support.
Detroit, Michigan – Claressa “The GWOAT” Shields is set to defend her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in a highly anticipated rematch on February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. This bout marks Shields’ first fight since signing a landmark $8 million promotional deal.
The upcoming fight is a rematch of their 2016 professional debuts, where Shields secured a unanimous decision victory over Crews-Dezurn. Since then, both fighters have achieved significant milestones in their careers. Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has become the first three-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era, holding titles in middleweight, light-middleweight, and heavyweight divisions. Crews-Dezurn, originally from Baltimore, Maryland, has held the WBC super-middleweight title and is moving up to heavyweight for this rematch.
The fight will be streamed live on DAZN, with doors opening at 4 p.m. Shields expressed her excitement about returning to Detroit, stating that fighting in Michigan motivates her and adds pressure to perform well for her fans. This rematch is part of Shields’ new promotional agreement, which aims to elevate women’s boxing and provide greater visibility for female athletes in the sport.
### Significance of the Event
This rematch holds particular importance for both fighters and women’s boxing as a whole. Shields has consistently pushed the boundaries of the sport, and her new promotional deal is a testament to the growing investment in women’s athletics. Her remarkable journey and unwavering determination have transformed her from an amateur standout to a global icon in women’s sports. Meanwhile, Crews-Dezurn’s transition to heavyweight speaks to the evolving landscape of competition within women’s boxing.
Shields has mentioned that her motivation and energy are amplified when fighting in her hometown. The support from the local community not only fuels her passion but also highlights the positive impact of local engagement in sporting events. Events like these can stimulate local economies, bringing attention and tourism to Detroit, which ultimately supports local businesses and services.
### Streaming and Fan Engagement
Fans eager to witness the rematch can conveniently access the fight through DAZN, a platform that has become synonymous with boxing and is committed to showcasing both male and female athletes. This increasing accessibility to live sports can encourage higher viewership and foster a deeper connection between athletes and fans.
### Enhancing Women’s Boxing
With notable figures like Shields in women’s boxing, there is a growing recognition of female athletes as formidable competitors, worthy of the same sponsorship and promotional support that has traditionally been limited to men’s sports. The rematch is expected to draw significant attention, shining a light on the female athletes who are challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future generations.
### Key Features of the Rematch
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | February 22, 2026 |
| Location | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan |
| Fighters | Claressa “The GWOAT” Shields vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn |
| Fight Significance | Rematch of their 2016 professional debuts; Shields defends her undisputed heavyweight championship |
| Streaming Platform | DAZN |
| Doors Open | 4 p.m. |
| Shields’ Achievements | First three-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era |
| Crews-Dezurn’s Achievement | Former WBC super-middleweight champion moving up to heavyweight for this rematch |
Conclusion
In summary, the rematch between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn marks a significant moment not just in their careers, but also for women’s boxing as a whole. The event underscores the importance of support for female athletes and the need for increased visibility in the sport. As the date approaches, anticipation builds not only among local fans but also within communities striving for greater representation in sports. Readers are encouraged to support local businesses, stay engaged in the world of women’s boxing, and look forward to an exciting event that promises to leave a lasting impact on the sport.
### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the 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 fight?
This bout is a rematch of their 2016 professional debuts, where Shields secured a unanimous decision victory over Crews-Dezurn. Since then, both fighters have achieved significant milestones in their careers, with Shields becoming the first three-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era, and Crews-Dezurn holding the WBC super-middleweight title and moving up to heavyweight for this rematch.
How can I watch the fight?
The fight will be streamed live on DAZN, with doors opening at 4 p.m.
What is the background of the fighters?
Claressa Shields is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and has become the first three-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era, holding titles in middleweight, light-middleweight, and heavyweight divisions. Franchon Crews-Dezurn, originally from Baltimore, Maryland, has held the WBC super-middleweight title and is moving up to heavyweight for this rematch.
Why is this rematch significant for women’s boxing?
This rematch is part of Shields’ new promotional agreement, which aims to elevate women’s boxing and provide greater visibility for female athletes in the sport. The event is expected to draw significant attention, as both fighters have been instrumental in advancing women’s boxing to new heights.
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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.
