Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn’s rematch in Detroit is in jeopardy after a chaotic weigh-in altercation left Crews-Dezurn injured and uncertain about proceeding with Sunday’s main event at Little Caesars Arena.
Tensions escalated during the traditional face-off when Crews-Dezurn pressed her forehead against Shields. The undisputed heavyweight champion responded by shoving her opponent away. While brief physicality is not uncommon at weigh-ins, the situation quickly spiraled. A security guard attempted to restrain Crews-Dezurn, prompting her husband, professional boxer Glenn Dezurn, to intervene by slapping the guard’s hand away.
Members of both camps exchanged heated words before a brief melee broke out behind the stage. According to sources, Crews-Dezurn was attempting to reach her husband, who had become involved in the scuffle. Video footage shows Crews-Dezurn falling into a table and onto the ground during the chaos. The altercation ended swiftly, but the aftermath cast a shadow over the event.
Crews-Dezurn later met privately with her manager, Peter Kahn. While speculation circulated about possible contract concerns, Kahn confirmed that she had rolled her ankle. When asked whether the fight would proceed, he replied, “We’ll see.” A separate source indicated that Crews-Dezurn is also dealing with swelling in her knee and ankle and plans to consult a doctor Sunday morning before making a final decision.
A source with the promotion confirmed that a replacement opponent is available should Crews-Dezurn withdraw, though no name has been disclosed. As of now, no official decision has been made regarding the status of the rematch.
Image Credit: Salita Promotions