Welterweight world champion Mikaela Mayer believes a significant “super-fight” against her former US Olympic teammate, Claressa Shields, could become a reality, despite Shields currently holding the title of undisputed heavyweight champion.
Mayer and Shields were part of the American squad at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, where Mayer competed at lightweight and Shields secured her second consecutive middleweight gold medal. Since turning professional, Mayer has claimed world titles in multiple divisions, culminating in her current status as welterweight champion. Shields has built an undefeated professional record, winning championships in super-welter, middle, super-middle, and most recently, heavyweight, becoming the first undisputed women`s champion in that division in February.
Despite the current weight disparity, Mayer suggested that if she continues to move up through the weight classes and Shields considers stepping back down, they could potentially meet in an anticipated all-American showdown.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Mayer expressed her willingness to campaign at 154lbs (super-welterweight) for the right opportunities. She emphasized her desire for major, challenging fights that capture public interest, rather than pursuing an easier path solely for more titles. Mayer specifically mentioned a fight against Shields at 154lbs as a possibility they have both discussed.
However, Mayer also acknowledged that the timing is uncertain, particularly given Shields` recent move to heavyweight. “I`m not going to hold my breath,” Mayer stated, noting that the longer Shields competes at the heavier weight, the more difficult it might be for her to successfully drop back down. Mayer understands there are many factors at play but remains open to the potential fight.
Mayer knows Shields well from their time together on the amateur circuit. Reflecting on their physical attributes, Mayer noted they are similar in height, though Shields would likely possess a size advantage. Nevertheless, Mayer is confident that as a professional fighter, she would prepare rigorously to be strong and competitive at 154lbs against someone like Shields.
Mayer also pointed out Shields` impressive speed for a heavier fighter, suggesting that Mayer`s own speed, coming from lower divisions, could create an evenly matched contest in that regard. She described the potential bout as intriguing due to their shared history and existing friendship, highlighting that both fighters prioritize big opportunities. Mayer concluded by expressing hope that they could both benefit from the fight and maintain their friendship afterward.
Shields` promoter, Dmitry Salita, also confirmed that discussions about a potential clash with Mayer have occurred. He told Sky Sports that Shields has a history of accepting difficult challenges, mentioning her upcoming undisputed heavyweight title defense against light-heavyweight champion Lani Daniels on July 26 in Detroit, where she will be presented as the only current American heavyweight champion. Salita described a super-fight with Mayer as “certainly a possibility,” identifying weight as the primary hurdle. He also added that Shields is fond of the UK and would be interested in fighting there again if the opportunity arose.
Murray Blackwood