Shields and Crews-Dezurn Clash in Highly Anticipated Rematch in Detroit

Detroit's biggest fight of the year pits undefeated boxing superstar Claressa Shields against determined challenger Franchon Crews-Dezurn.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:48am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the intense action of a boxing match, with sharp geometric shapes and planes of vibrant red, blue, and yellow colors capturing the raw energy of the fight.The highly anticipated rematch between boxing superstars Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn promises an explosive display of skill and determination in the ring.Today in Detroit

Undefeated women's boxing champion Claressa Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) is set to defend her heavyweight title against Franchon Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs) in a highly anticipated rematch at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena on February 22nd. This fight is a chance for Shields to solidify her status as the Greatest Woman of All Time (GWOAT) in boxing, but Crews-Dezurn is determined to earn redemption after their first professional bout in 2016.

Why it matters

This rematch is a major event for the city of Detroit, which is buzzing with excitement. Shields, a hometown hero, has the opportunity to cement her legacy as one of the greatest female boxers ever, while Crews-Dezurn looks to pull off a shocking upset and become a new champion.

The details

The fight almost didn't happen due to a dramatic incident at the weigh-in, where Crews-Dezurn took a tumble and fell into a table, causing concern about her well-being. However, the fight promoter assured fans that both boxers were ready to go. The undercard featured several exciting fights, including a new women's light heavyweight world champion being crowned as Danielle Perkins defeated Che Kenneally.

  • The fight is scheduled for February 22nd, 2026 at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
  • In 2016, Shields and Crews-Dezurn faced off in their professional debuts, with Shields emerging victorious.

The players

Claressa Shields

An undefeated women's boxing superstar and the current heavyweight champion, known as the Greatest Woman of All Time (GWOAT) in boxing.

Franchon Crews-Dezurn

A determined challenger looking to earn redemption against Shields after their first professional bout in 2016, where she was defeated.

Danielle Perkins

The new women's light heavyweight world champion after defeating Che Kenneally on the undercard.

Mary Sheffield

The mayor of Detroit, who made a surprise appearance in the ring to greet the crowd.

Joseph George

A boxer who suffered a scary collapse during his undercard bout with Atif Oberlton, but eventually recovered.

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What they’re saying

“Oberlton offered a respectful post-fight message, even suggesting a rematch.”

— Atif Oberlton

What’s next

The highly anticipated main event between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn is set to take place on February 22nd, 2026 at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Fans are eager to see if Shields will continue her dominant reign or if Crews-Dezurn can pull off a shocking upset.

The takeaway

This rematch between Shields and Crews-Dezurn is a major event for the city of Detroit, showcasing the talent and determination of these two elite female boxers. The outcome will have a significant impact on Shields' legacy as the GWOAT, while also providing Crews-Dezurn a chance to avenge her previous loss and become a new champion.