Claressa Shields Defends Undisputed Heavyweight Title Against Franchon Crews-Dezurn
Boxing News
by Tom GalmFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Claressa Shields, the undisputed heavyweight champion, made history by becoming the first female boxer to hold four belts across two weight classes when she defended her title against Franchon Crews-Dezurn. This highly anticipated rematch marked Shields' first defense since winning the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO titles in February 2023. The fight, held at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, was a thrilling showdown between two of women’s boxing’s top pound-for-pound stars. With four belts on the line, the stakes were high for both fighters as they showcased their skills and determination in a match that captivated boxing fans worldwide.
Shields entered the fight with an impressive record of 15-0 and a reputation for her technical precision and defensive prowess. Known for her ability to adapt to different styles, Shields faced off against Crews-Dezurn, who brought a powerful punching style and relentless energy to the ring. Despite being a crowd favorite, Crews-Dezurn struggled to land clean shots against Shields’ defensive arsenal, which included quick footwork and head movement. Shields’ ability to control the pace of the fight and dictate where the action would take place was a key factor in her performance.
The bout was a masterclass in boxing strategy, with both fighters displaying their strengths. Shields demonstrated why she is considered one of the most skilled boxers in the sport today, using her superior foot
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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/20/2026