Claressa Shields, known as the "GWOAT" (Greatest Woman of All Time), has once again made headlines, this time overcoming a controversial suspension that threatened to derail her illustrious boxing career. The Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission has lifted her suspension following a positive marijuana test, clearing her name and allowing her to return to the ring.
Shields’ suspension stemmed from an "oral fluid sample" that indicated the presence of marijuana after her February 3rd, 2024, victory over Danielle Perkins. While marijuana remains prohibited in-competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which sets global standards for anti-doping policies across various sports, the landscape regarding cannabis use is evolving. WADA recently updated their rules, and while it remains on the banned substance list, the discussion continues. Dmitry Salita, her promoter, emphasized, “Claressa Shields is a clean athlete whose career—from Olympic champion to multi-division world champion—has been nothing short of historic.”
Now that she’s back, Shields expressed her vindication on social media, stating, “Officially unsuspended... but y’all a little quiet. Y’all was real loud about me supposedly smoking marijuana and being suspended. No worries. And still an undisputed heavyweight champ.”
The boxing world is no stranger to controversy, and Shields’ experience serves as a reminder that the path to greatness is rarely without obstacles. Claressa Shields, a Michigan native, is a multi-weight champion, holding titles in the super-middleweight, middleweight, and super-welterweight divisions, and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, representing the United States at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games.
Shields holds the unique distinction of being the only fighter, male or female, to be the undisputed champion in three different divisions during the four-belt era. With 13 Championship Belts to her name, she has cemented her place in boxing history. Despite her only professional loss to Savannah Marshall years before her Olympic victories, a potential rematch remains highly anticipated. While Marshall has experienced sporadic international losses, fans are eager to see Shields attempt to avenge her sole defeat.
Shields has significantly elevated women's boxing globally, demonstrating what female fighters can achieve when given equal opportunities. Salita reiterated, "She remains focused on continuing to make history and elevate women’s boxing to new heights." Her journey has sparked conversations about gender equality in sports, inspiring more women to enter the ring. Leagues, sponsors, and media outlets are increasingly promoting female athletes alongside their male counterparts.
Beyond boxing, Shields has ventured into Professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), seeing it as an opportunity to challenge herself further. In 2021, she transitioned to MMA, and her record currently stands at 1-1. Her dual commitments highlight her relentless spirit and willingness to explore beyond conventional boundaries.
Shields embodies grace, grit, and determination, proving her dedication to the relentless pursuit of greatness. The boxing world eagerly anticipates her next historic moment.
