Claressa Shields And Franchon Crews Establish Momentum In New York Leading Up To Historic Undisputed Heavyweight Showdown
Photo By Stephanie Trapp
The buildup for one of the most significant fights in women’s boxing officially commenced Tuesday afternoon at The EDITION Times Square, where Claressa “The GWOAT” Shields (17-0, 3KO’s) and Franchon “The Heavy Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KO’s) took the stage for a press conference that set a serious mood for what’s ahead. With championship titles showcased and history highlighted, both athletes spoke openly, exchanged sharp remarks, and underscored that this confrontation is not merely about a title — it’s about their legacies.
Shields and Crews-Dezurn are set to face off on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, competing for the Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship, which will be streamed live on DAZN, the leading platform for boxing. This bout signifies Shields’ first fight following her unprecedented $8 million agreement with Wynn Records and Salita Promotions, the largest contract awarded to a female boxer, marking her return to Little Caesars Arena after a sold-out match on July 27, 2025.
The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in collaboration with Wynn Records and is co-promoted by 313 Presents. Tickets are currently available for purchase at 313Presents.com and Ticketmaster.com.
Moderated by Cigar Talk’s Naji Grampus, the conference brought together influential figures from boxing, music, and culture, including iconic New York musician and Executive at Wynn Records Papoose, Wynn Records Founder & CEO Ruben Branson, and Salita Promotions President Dmitriy Salita. The conversation emphasized the significance of the occasion as two undisputed champions prepared to clash with everything at stake.
DMITRIY SALITA, PRESIDENT OF SALITA PROMOTIONS
“This fight represents the pinnacle of women’s boxing. Claressa Shields has achieved what no one else has, becoming a three-division world champion faster than any other in the sport’s history. Both Claressa and Franchon have attained undisputed status in their careers, holding every major title along with The Ring title. When athletes of this level meet, it’s not something fabricated; it’s well earned.”
“We’re coming back to the largest venue at Little Caesars to host the biggest fight in women’s boxing on Sunday, February 22, and I assure you it will be explosive. The Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship, especially when held by an American, is among the most sought-after honors in sports. When that title is contested between two authentic American champions, the entire world takes note.”
Shields, whose career has been characterized by challenging top competitors across various divisions, embraced the opportunity to face Crews-Dezurn in such a pivotal matchup.
CLARESSA SHIELDS, UNDISPUTED HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
“This is the type of fight the sport demands,” Shields remarked. “This resembles the Laila Ali versus Ann Wolfe bout that never occurred.”
“Franchon is here today because she is exceptional. She is a powerful puncher; she’s hit me harder than anyone, male or female. She possesses a strong right hand. She’s not someone to underestimate, and then just head into training camp and slack off. I have immense respect for her, but I want to put her down! It’s not out of hatred; I just focus on my job in the ring, regardless of my opponent. I get in there and go after these girls.”
FRANCHON CREWS-DEZURN, UNDISPUTED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION
“I’m one of the rare ones, part of the last few breeds, and I confront everything. Everything I do aims to uphold women’s boxing and to compete on par with men. Claressa Shields is one of the best teammates to have because she is committed to delivering exciting, challenging fights, making sure it’s recognized that it’s not merely a women’s fight; it’s going to be a spectacular one.”
“That’s why we hold such mutual respect, as there’s never been an instance where I have taken a defeat and walked away feeling ashamed. It’s always been a fight. I have pursued her since then. I’m after her now, and you all should appreciate me because individuals like myself keep her performing at her best.”
PAPOOSE, EXECUTIVE AT WYNN RECORDS
“I’m a fervent boxing enthusiast, a true fanatic; I’m not a casual observer. Typically, when fights are announced, you occasionally hear disappointment. However, when we unveiled this matchup, Franchon versus the GWOAT, Claressa Shields, nobody felt let down.”
“I can’t disclose what’s in store, but rest assured we are adept at filling seats, and this matchup will be no different. Uniting all of these influences will lead to even bigger fights and occasions. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, I can’t fathom what’s holding you back because this is guaranteed to sell out!”
RUBEN BRANSON, FOUNDER AND CEO OF WYNN RECORDS
“Claressa’s presence has been Wynn Records’ best investment. Her core principles are vital when we consider investments on such a scale. Her capacity to inspire the next generation is remarkable; witnessing children approach her to express gratitude for her role as a role model truly exemplifies what makes her a leading figure in the sport, and I eagerly anticipate her legacy continuing on February 22 at Little Caesars Arena.”
With two champions, a storied rivalry, and the title of undisputed status on the line, the matchup of Shields vs. Crews-Dezurn represents a pivotal moment for women’s boxing, a bout rooted in achievement, competitiveness, and respect.
Published: 2025-12-18 01:42:00
source: fightnews.com
