Claressa Shields vs. Mikaela Mayer 'very realistic' and is 'the biggest fight in women's boxing,' says promoter Dmitriy Salita | Boxing News

Claressa Shields vs Mikaela Mayer has a “very realistic” chance of happening this year and could be “the biggest fight in women's boxing”, promoter Dmitriy Salita has said.

Shields can resume her dominance of the sport when she defends her undisputed world heavyweight titles against Franchon Crews Dezurn in Detroit on Sunday.

If the five-weight world champion emerges victorious, she would be open to a fight against compatriot America Mayer, who has won world titles in three divisions.

Salita, who promotes Shields, told Sky Sports: “At the moment we are completely focused on February 22 – a major rematch against Franchon Crews Dezurn.

“This is one of the most important fights in boxing and Claressa understands the magnitude of the moment.

“That said, assuming she is victorious, I think a Shields-Mayer fight is very realistic this year. Claressa has repeatedly moved up and down in weight to make the biggest fights possible.

“Her track record shows she wants to fight the biggest fights, and both sides have expressed their intention to have a serious and meaningful conversation to make that happen.”

Mayer also expressed his willingness to have Shields fight, telling Sky Sports: “I always wanted to put on the biggest and best fights possible.

“The fights that fans want to see and the fights that continue to grow women's boxing. Right now it's me against Claressa Shields.

“Let’s fight and give the world the greatest women’s boxing match it has ever seen.”

Shields and Mayer are expected to agree on an appropriate weight class, as Mayer last fought at super welterweight while unifying the WBC, WBO and WBA titles with a victory over Mary Spencer in October.

“Yes, it's absolutely a fight that both sides benefit from exploring,” Salita said. “The only real question is weight, but that's not an unrealistic obstacle.

“From a global perspective, this is arguably the biggest fight in women's boxing. It's significant, it's competitive and it captures the attention of the American and British public.

“These are the kind of fights Claressa has always fought throughout her career.”

Shields signed an $8 million (£6.1 million) promotional deal with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records in November last year.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist has worked with Salita since the early stages of his professional career and he predicted even more career-defining victories for the Michigan-born fighter.

“Claressa is a generational talent and I am honored that she has chosen to build her legacy with us,” said Salita.

“What sets her apart is not just her skills, it’s her willingness to take risks, to cross divisions, and her star power and personality to headline big arenas while moving the sport forward.

“As a veteran inspired by HBO, Showtime and the great Sky shows of the past, I believe in blending what made boxing powerful then with the tools of today.

“Shields reshaped the boxing landscape”

“That means elite, meaningful matchmaking – but also modern storytelling. We build fighters through authentic narratives, digital engagement, music, culture and deep community connection.

“We pride ourselves on putting fighters first. That means giving athletes the platform, resources and freedom to become global stars.

“Claressa's journey with us reflects that vision. Her first fight under our banner took place in a room of approximately 1,000 people. Today, she headlines a nearly 20,000-seat arena in Detroit, generating a significant seven-figure gate.

“Our partnership with Wynn Records has evolved into something special: integrating music and culture in a way that elevates the entire event. Once again, she will be accompanied to the ring by a major superstar, amplifying her brand and the show.

“Her fight is a statement. Detroit is back as a hub for world-class boxing. Women can headline, sell out arenas, command major purses and inspire the next generation.

“A young girl from Flint with a dream has reshaped the boxing landscape – and we’re just getting started.”

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