Shields Sets Sights on Price in US and UK Showdowns

Claressa Shields is gearing up for a transatlantic clash with Lauren Price, as the two Olympic champions prepare to face off for the first time later this year. Price successfully defended her unified welterweight title against Stephanie Pineiro in Cardiff, despite a grueling battle that left her bloodied. Following the fight, Price and Shields met in the ring, setting the stage for a potential middleweight showdown before the end of 2026. Shields expressed her enthusiasm for the fight, stating that she looks forward to competing against Price, who is willing to move up to 160lbs. Shields also suggested that the fight could take place in both the US and the UK, should the first bout prove successful. Shields' promoter, Dmitriy Salita, praised the undefeated American as a 'generational talent' and emphasized her commitment to making the biggest and best fights to advance the sport. Salita confirmed that Shields' attendance at Price's fight in the UK was a sign of respect for her skills and a potential precursor to a future showdown. Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, believes that her match-up with Price is particularly significant due to their shared Olympic pedigree. While Shields expects to dominate Price, she acknowledges the Welshwoman's resilience and toughness, as demonstrated in her hard-fought victory over Pineiro. Shields also expressed her confidence in defeating three-weight world champion Mikaela Mayer, should they ever meet in the ring, but stressed that a clash with Price takes priority.