Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields is stepping back into the ring—and she’s doing it in her hometown! The undefeated boxing champion will defend her undisputed heavyweight title against New Zealand’s Lani Daniels on July 26 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, in a highly anticipated showdown that’s expected to electrify the boxing world.
The fight will stream live globally on DAZN, available in over 200 countries, with coverage kicking off at 6 p.m. for the opening bout and 8 p.m. for the main card. DAZN subscribers can watch the event as part of their package, while new users can subscribe for full access.
This marks Shields’ return to the ring following a brief, one-month suspension earlier this year after testing positive for marijuana in a February bout against Danielle Perkins. After a formal investigation, the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission (MUCC) cleared Shields, removing her from the suspension list and paving the way for her comeback.
Her opponent, Lani Daniels (11-2-2), is no stranger to big moments either.
The seasoned Kiwi fighter will aim to dethrone Shields, who boasts an undefeated record and a resume that includes world titles in multiple weight divisions.
Full Fight Card – July 26, Detroit:
- Claressa Shields vs Lani Daniels – Heavyweight, Undisputed Title Bout
- Tony Harrison vs Edward Diaz – Middleweight
- Pryce Taylor vs Robert Simms – Heavyweight
- Samantha Worthington vs Victoire Piteau – Super Lightweight, WBA Interim Title
- Caroline Veyre vs Licia Boudersa – Featherweight
Shields, 30, has also been making headlines outside the ring, reigniting her long-standing war of words with Laila Ali, the undefeated daughter of Muhammad Ali.
Shields has publicly challenged Ali, now 47, to a fight, calling herself the G.W.O.A.T.—greatest woman of all time—and offering her a reported $15 million purse to step into the ring.
Ali, who retired in 2007 with a flawless 24-0 record and 21 knockouts, has not responded to Shields’ challenge. She previously stated it would take $15–20 million for her to even consider a comeback after nearly two decades away from the sport.
Critics argue the fight may never happen, with some calling Shields’ challenge a strategic ploy, knowing Ali hasn’t laced up gloves in 18 years. Still, if anyone can talk a legend out of retirement, it just might be the G.W.O.A.T.
For now, all eyes are on July 26, when Shields returns to her hometown ring with something to prove and a title to defend.
