Negotiations are still underway for a potential clash between Claressa Shields and Lauren Price, following the American champion's dramatic recapture of two middle‑weight world titles on Saturday. Shields reclaimed the WBC and WBA belts by delivering a merciless sixth‑round stoppage to Kaye Scott, cementing her status as a three‑time middle‑weight world champion and adding another unbeaten chapter to her storied career.
Price, who currently holds the unified welterweight crowns, has emerged as the most likely next challenger for Shields. Dmitriy Salita, the promoter who manages Shields, has expressed a strong desire to lock in a fight that would pit two Olympic gold‑medalists against each other. "We’re working on it as we speak," Salita told Sky Sports, emphasizing that his team has already met the demands put forward by Price’s representatives at BOXXER and Lauren’s camp. Salita explained that he invited both fighters and their entourages to sit down together to iron out any remaining details.
"My relationship with the athletes I promote – especially Claressa – is built on transparency. They understand every moving part, and we approach these decisions as business partners," he said. He added that both women are exceptionally sharp negotiators: "Claressa is incredibly intelligent and seasoned when it comes to arranging marquee fights, and I have no doubt Lauren brings the same level of acumen to the table." Although the two camps have not yet reached a final agreement, Salita insisted that discussions are ongoing and that the goal remains to make the fight happen. "Unfortunately, they weren’t able to meet in person yet, but the conversation continues and we are committed to making this bout a reality," he affirmed.
In addition to the Price matchup, Shields has been linked to other high‑profile opponents. One possibility is a showdown with WBO and IBF middle‑weight champion Tamm Thibeault, while another rumor suggests a fight with fellow American Mikaela Mayer, who is slated to face Chantelle Cameron in a unified super‑welterweight title bout in Birmingham on August 29, broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Salita noted, "Claressa wants to fight the best and be part of the biggest, most impactful events – that’s always been clear." He also hinted that backup plans are in place should the Price fight fall through. "We have a few other conversations happening.
We’ll make a decision soon, but whatever comes next, the aim is to create another legacy‑defining moment for Claressa and for the sport of boxing," Salita said. The recent Shields‑Scott fight drew a massive crowd to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, attracting not only boxing fans but also notable figures from music, hip‑hop, and broader pop culture. Salita remarked on the unprecedented level of attention: "We were receiving calls and requests from some of the biggest stars in hip‑hop, music, boxing and culture right up until the final bell.
Usher, Floyd Mayweather, Kevin Gates, Terence Crawford – the list goes on. The atmosphere was electric." He emphasized that the event highlighted how far Shields’ appeal has expanded beyond the confines of the ring. "It was a special night in a packed arena and a real reflection of Claressa’s star power and how far her reach has grown beyond boxing," Salita concluded. The prospect of a Shields‑Price encounter carries significant intrigue for fans and analysts alike.
Both athletes entered the Olympic Games as teenagers and captured gold medals – Shields in the 2012 London Games (women’s middleweight) and Price in the 2016 Rio Games (women’s welterweight). Their shared Olympic pedigree adds a layer of historical resonance, promising a narrative that transcends a typical title fight. From a stylistic standpoint, Shields is known for her aggressive, pressure‑based approach, leveraging her powerful jab and relentless body work to wear down opponents.
Price, on the other hand, brings a more technical, counter‑punching style honed through her extensive amateur experience. A clash of these contrasting tactics could produce a tactical chess match that would be dissected by pundits for months. Financially, the bout has the potential to generate substantial pay‑per‑view revenue. Shields’ recent resurgence has reignited interest in women’s boxing, and Price’s growing fan base in the United Kingdom adds an international market dimension.
Promoters are already discussing venue options ranging from large American arenas to iconic UK locations, each offering unique promotional angles. Beyond the immediate commercial implications, a Shields‑Price fight could serve as a watershed moment for gender equity in the sport. By headlining a major event with two Olympic champions, the matchup would showcase the depth of talent in women’s boxing and could inspire a new generation of athletes. In summary, while the final contract is still pending, the groundwork laid by Salita and Price’s team suggests that a high‑stakes, high‑profile showdown is within reach.
Whether the fight materializes in Atlanta, London, or another major venue, the anticipation remains high, and the boxing world watches eagerly for the next development in what could become one of the sport’s most memorable encounters.