Photo credit: www.skysports.com
British boxer Lauren Price and American champion Claressa Shields may currently compete in different weight classes, but both athletes are eager for a potential showdown in the future.
Shields is no stranger to the spotlight, holding the title of undisputed heavyweight champion in women’s boxing. She has also previously claimed an undisputed championship in the super-welter and middleweight divisions.
Meanwhile, Price has made her mark as the unified WBC, WBA, and IBF welterweight world champion and is setting her sights on a match against WBO champion Mikaela Mayer for an undisputed title. Despite their weight differences, both Price and Shields share a common background as Olympic gold medalists—a distinction that adds an intriguing layer to a possible matchup.
After her recent victory over Sandy Ryan, Price expressed her readiness to face Mayer. “My main focus is on the 147-pound division and becoming undisputed,” she stated during an interview with Sky Sports News. “But certainly, facing Shields is something I’d love to do in the future. As Olympic champions, it would be a tremendous fight.”
Shields has shown interest in a bout with Price, acknowledging the rising talent. “I want to take on all challengers,” she remarked to Sky Sports, expressing her admiration for Price’s skills. “When I saw her fight, I was genuinely impressed.” She also commented on the weight difference, suggesting that if Price is willing to come up to middleweight, she should not hesitate. “If she wants to fight at 160 pounds, just know you can always gain some weight and step up,” Shields encouraged.
‘We can prove who’s the best Olympic champion’
Shields previously outlined her thoughts on Price, stating, “Olympic champions carry a unique pedigree. Lauren won her gold at the 2021 Olympics, and I foresee a bright future for her in the professional sphere.” She added that their shared Olympic experience at 165 pounds makes a future bout even more compelling. “If Lauren has aspirations of stepping up in weight, I’d be thrilled for the opportunity to fight her and determine who truly represents the best of our Olympic lineage,” Shields said.
Upcoming Boxing Events on Sky
Sunday, April 6
Richard Torrez Jr vs. Guido Vianello
Sunday, April 20
Ben Whittaker vs. Liam Cameron 2
Saturday, April 26, Sky Sports Box Office
Chris Eubank Jr vs. Conor Benn
Monday, May 5
Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas
Sunday, May 10
Emanuel Navarrete vs. Charly Suarez
Sunday, May 25
Manchester Box Cup Amateur Tournament
Saturday, June 7
Callum Simpson vs. Ivan Zucco
Source
www.skysports.com