Shields and Crews-Dezurn to Clash in Undisputed Title Fight Despite Weigh-In Brawl

The two rivals will meet in the ring on Sunday in Detroit, with Shields' heavyweight titles on the line.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn will face off in a highly anticipated rematch for the undisputed women's heavyweight championship this Sunday in Detroit. The lead-up to the fight has been marked by a brawl between the teams at the weigh-in, though Crews-Dezurn will still be able to compete despite sustaining injuries. Shields, considered one of the greatest female boxers, will defend her titles against her longtime rival Crews-Dezurn, who is the current WBA and WBC unified super middleweight champion.

Why it matters

This rematch represents a significant moment for women's boxing, as the increased visibility and investment in the sport are creating more opportunities for female athletes to showcase their skills and attract a wider audience. The success of fighters like Shields and Crews-Dezurn is driving greater interest and participation in the sport, leading to greater parity and recognition for women in boxing.

The details

Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) and Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs) first met in 2016 when they made their professional debuts against each other, with Shields securing a unanimous decision victory. Their rivalry extends even further, encompassing three amateur bouts, all won by Shields. Despite the incident at the weigh-in, where tensions escalated into a physical altercation between members of both teams, promoter Dmitry Salita confirmed the fight will proceed as scheduled.

  • Shields and Crews-Dezurn first fought in 2016 when they made their professional debuts.
  • They have a history of three amateur bouts, all won by Shields.
  • The weigh-in brawl occurred on the eve of the fight, on Saturday, February 22, 2026.
  • The main event ring walks are estimated to begin around 11 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Claressa Shields

Claressa Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in women's boxing history, having captured 18 world championships across five different weight classes. She currently holds the undisputed heavyweight title.

Franchon Crews-Dezurn

Franchon Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs) is a former friend and mentor to Shields, and currently holds the WBA and WBC unified super middleweight world championship.

Dmitry Salita

Dmitry Salita is the promoter who confirmed that the fight between Shields and Crews-Dezurn will proceed as scheduled, despite the weigh-in brawl.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.