Claressa Shields Signs Groundbreaking $8M Boxing Deal

The boxing world is buzzing with the news that Claressa Shields, arguably the greatest female boxer of all time, has signed a groundbreaking $8 million multi-year promotional contract. This deal not only secures her financial future but also positions her to continue breaking barriers for women's boxing.

The $8 Million Deal Details

Shields, 30, has committed to a two-year deal with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records that includes a guaranteed $8 million. The contract features a $3 million signing bonus, which was a key factor in her decision to remain with Salita after exploring other options. This deal represents the most lucrative contract in the history of women's boxing and marks a significant step forward for pay equality in the sport.

"This deal represents more than just a contract, it's a statement. I've fought my entire career to prove that women's boxing deserves equal respect, equal pay, and equal opportunity."

The agreement provides Shields with flexibility to pursue crossover fights with other promoters, something that has been limited for female fighters in the past. It also covers at least four bouts, with Shields indicating she plans to fight two or three times in 2026 before taking a year off to have a child.

Shields' Ambitious Career Plans

The undisputed heavyweight champion has a clear vision for the remainder of her career. At 30 years old with an undefeated record of 17-0 across nine years of professional boxing, Shields aims to retire at 38. She's won championships in five different weight classes and made history as the first American boxer of any gender to win two Olympic gold medals before turning professional.

"I want to be able to embrace the younger generation, but I have to have all the fight out of me first," Shields explained. "So that's why I want to retire at 38."

Financial Ambitions and Market Testing

During her free agency period following her last title defense in July, Shields tested the market with several major promotional companies. While she negotiated with powerhouses like Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Sport and Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, the guaranteed money offered by Salita and Wynn Records ultimately won her over.

"I'm trying to get to where I can make $50 million for one fight, just like Floyd did, before I retire," Shields shared, referring to Floyd Mayweather Jr. "So I believe that starting at an $8 million minimum is a great start."

Shields has expressed frustration with her early career earnings, noting that she didn't receive the million-dollar contract that male Olympic gold medalists typically command. Her first professional bout with Salita Promotions earned her just $50,000.

Future Fights and Potential Showdowns

With her new deal secured, Shields is already looking ahead to potential matchups. While she has openly lobbied for a fight against Laila Ali (who has firmly declined), her promoter Dmitriy Salita suggested such a bout would "take women's boxing to the next level."

More realistically, Shields has expressed interest in fighting Mikaela Mayer, who recently won at 151 pounds. "The way she beat up Mary Spencer, I would love to see her throw those punches at me," Shields said. "That'd be a great time."

No bouts have been officially announced yet, but Shields and her promoters have indicated she intends to return to the ring in the first quarter of 2026. She has also confirmed she won't be returning to mixed martial arts, where she had a 2-1 record, as her boxing earnings now significantly surpass what she was making in MMA.

A Legacy in the Making

As Shields continues to build her legacy, this historic contract serves as both recognition of her past achievements and a platform for her future ambitions. With plans to have a child around age 32 and continue fighting until 38, Shields is determined to maximize her impact in the sport while also securing her personal future.

"I just always wanted to make sure that I have my own family once I'm done boxing," Shields explained. "I didn't want to start having kids when I'm 40."

The boxing world will be watching closely as Shields continues to break barriers and set new standards for what's possible for female athletes in combat sports.