BREAKING: “G.W.O.A.T.” Claressa Shields Shocks MMA World With Retirement Announcement

Five-division boxing champion Claressa Shields has stunned the combat sports world today (Monday, May 19, 2025) by announcing her retirement from mixed martial arts, bringing an unexpected end to her journey in the cage.

The Shocking Announcement That Nobody Saw Coming

In what can only be described as a bombshell announcement, boxing superstar Claressa Shields has decided to step away from MMA competition. The news comes as a major surprise to fans and analysts alike, as the 30-year-old was widely expected to continue pursuing her goal of two-sport dominance.

Shields, who famously branded herself the “Greatest Woman of All Time” (G.W.O.A.T.), made the announcement via social media, catching even her closest training partners off guard. Her statement was characteristically bold yet emotional, thanking her supporters while explaining that her boxing legacy now demands her full attention.

From Boxing Dominance to MMA Experiment

For those who’ve followed Shields’ career, her MMA journey has been nothing short of fascinating. After dominating the boxing world with multiple world championships across five weight divisions, Shields shocked everyone in 2020 when she announced her intention to compete in MMA.

The Flint, Michigan native signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and embarked on what she called her “greatest challenge yet.” Her MMA career saw its share of both spectacular moments and growing pains as she worked to adapt her world-class boxing to the multifaceted demands of mixed martial arts.

Claressa Shields’ MMA Record at Retirement

“I Gave MMA Everything I Had”

In her retirement statement, Shields reflected on her journey: “I gave MMA everything I had. I wanted to prove I could excel at both sports at the highest level. There’s no regret in my heart, just pride in what I accomplished and lessons I’ll carry forever.”

The boxing champion acknowledged the immense challenge of mastering a completely different sport in her athletic prime: “Learning to wrestle, kick, and grapple while still maintaining my boxing career was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But I never backed down from the challenge, and that’s what I want people to remember.”

The Legacy She Leaves Behind

Despite finishing with a mixed record of 3-4, Shields’ impact on MMA transcends her win-loss column. Her willingness to risk her perfect professional boxing record and reputation by starting from scratch in a new sport inspired countless athletes to push beyond their comfort zones.

Her biggest MMA moment arguably came in her debut against Brittney Elkin, where she overcame early adversity on the ground to secure a dramatic third-round TKO victory that showed her heart, determination, and punching power.

Her final MMA bout against Cris Cyborg at the historic PFL vs. Bellator event drew massive viewership and marked a fitting, if unsuccessful, end to her cage fighting career.

What’s Next for the G.W.O.A.T.?

While Shields is closing the MMA chapter of her career, the boxing world eagerly awaits her return to full-time focus on the sweet science. Rumors of potential super-fights with Katie Taylor and a trilogy bout with Savannah Marshall have already begun circulating.

Additionally, Shields has expressed interest in expanding her role as a combat sports ambassador and potentially exploring opportunities in professional wrestling, following the path of former UFC champion Ronda Rousey.

The MMA Community Reacts

Reactions from the MMA community have been pouring in since Shields’ announcement:

UFC President Dana White praised her courage: “What Claressa did was incredible. Coming from boxing as a world champion and challenging herself in MMA shows what kind of competitor she is. Nothing but respect.”

Former opponent Cris Cyborg tweeted: “Honored to have shared the cage with @Claressashields. A true champion who challenged herself when she had nothing to prove. Boxing’s gain is our loss.”

PFL founder Donn Davis released a statement saying: “Claressa Shields embodies what the PFL is all about—elite athletes challenging themselves on the biggest stages. Her journey with us has been extraordinary, and we wish her continued success.”

A Pioneer Regardless of Record

I’ve covered combat sports for over a decade, and what Shields attempted was unprecedented in the modern era. To reach the absolute pinnacle of boxing—becoming an undisputed, multi-division world champion—and then willingly step into a cage against experienced MMA fighters demonstrates a level of competitive courage few athletes possess.

While her MMA record might not reflect her boxing dominance, her willingness to risk failure in the public eye while pursuing mastery of a second combat sport deserves our admiration. In a sporting world where protecting records and brands often takes