For the first time, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and now two-division professional world champion Claressa Shields (6-0, 2 KOs) of Flint, Mi, looked mortal.
Costa Rica’s WBA and WBO Super Welterweight world champion Hanna Gabriels (18-2-1, 11 KOs) accepted the challenge to move up in weight to meet the down-sizing WBC and IBF champ delivered a shocking exchange that sent Shields to the canvas in the first round.
“Once I went down, I took a deep breath and I remember thinking to myself, ‘I’m about to whip this girl.’ I just remember thinking let’s use the jab and be smarter cited Shields.
Shields dusted herself off and got busy, establishing the jab and following with the strategic heavy rights, pressuring Gabriels backwards constantly.
Gabriels’ heart kept her in the match as she tired in the 7th round but Shields was persistent.
The fight was an aggressive battle for 10 Championship Rounds.
Official Scores: 98-91, 97-92, 97-92 for the NEW WBA and IBF Middleweight Champion, “T-Rex” Shields.
Shields is in line to finally meet WBC and WBO Middleweight champion, Christina Hammer, who moved through Tori Nelson in the Co-Feature bout earlier.
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Promoter:
Salita Promotions
Pictures (Credit: Jay Kemp):
Jay Kemp
Northwest Chicago Suburb native that has a knack for sports marketing. Sports is my life, from youth to professional levels. I make things happen! I AM GOLDEN! Sports BIZness specialties include marketable presentation, public relations, sponsorship acquisition and retention, up-to-date marketing strategies, charitable projects and how they translate into positive public image. In addition to boxing, I am a nationally certified coach in the sports of lacrosse, soccer, and wrestling, with ties to many other sports. Telephone: 224-627-3777
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