Claressa Shields signs multi-year deal with MMA giant PFL... as she aims to become two-sport champion

Largely considered the best pound-for-pound women's boxer on the planet, Claressa Shields is returning to cage fighting. Shields and PFL announced Tuesday that she had inked a multiyear contract to partake in MMA in PFL. The 28-year-old has a 1-1 record in Mixed Martial Arts after debuting in PFL back in 2021. Shields holds a professional boxing record of 14-0, with 2 knockouts. Her most recent fight occurred in June with a unanimous decision win vs. Maricela Cornejo. 'I am excited to return to a fighter-first organization and I can't wait to return to the PFL SmartCage,' Shields said in a statement. Claressa Shields, one of females boxing face's, is the current undisputed middleweight champ The 28-year-old is returning to PFL - where she has fought twice. She holds a 1-1 MMA record 'My goal remains unchanged. I will be the first athlete to hold championships in boxing and MMA simultaneously. 'I have grown so much since my first MMA fight and cannot wait to put my skills on display.' In her debut contest, Shields defeated Brittney Elkin by KO/TKO, who then had a record of 3-6. Her second fight resulted in a loss via split decision to Abigail Montes. Shields, who is the reigning undisputed middleweight champion in the women's division, called out Thurman earlier this month and is confident she can 'outbox him'. 'The GWOAT' even stated she is bigger and taller than the Florida fighter and appears to be dead serious about stepping into the ring with him. However, Thurman is far more reluctant, claiming he would 'only use his jab' and insist upon Shields donning headgear and him wearing 'bigger gloves'. Thurman also affirmed he isn't keen on 'punching a girl in the face' but would consider doing it for charity.