Claressa Shields has done it all in the ring, twice. Now, the two-time Olympic gold medalist wants to make history one more time by returning to the amateur ranks to represent Team USA at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Speaking at a media workout in Brooklyn, the 30-year-old undefeated champion made her pitch: “If America wants to get another Olympic gold medal, you put Claressa Shields in the 2028 L.A. Olympics – that’s what you’re doing.”
USA Boxing currently prohibits professionals from competing in amateur competition, but other countries have embraced the shift, sending pros with extensive records to recent Games. Shields referenced this global trend, citing names like Beatriz Ferreira and Bakhodir Jalolov, both of whom transitioned seamlessly between pro and amateur circuits.
Shields emphasized that her motivation isn't financial but legacy-driven: “Everybody wants money, but three Olympic gold medals? I’m already stunting with the two. I’ll change it to three quick.” She also floated the idea of Olympic champions mentoring future squads to instill the mental edge she says Team USA lacks today.
Now preparing to defend her undisputed heavyweight crown on July 26 against Lani Daniels, Shields made clear she’s retired from MMA, where she went 2-1 in the PFL. Her focus is back where it began: boxing. And if USA Boxing is open to the idea, 2028 could mark the return of one of the sport’s most dominant forces.
Image Credit: ESPN