In the latest chapter of a heated rivalry in women’s boxing, undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields has spoken out following a physical altercation with super featherweight champion Alycia Baumgardner at a Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) event.
The incident occurred in the VIP section during MVP’s MMA event featuring Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. Video footage shows the two champions in a heated verbal exchange, after which Shields slapped Baumgardner. Security quickly intervened to separate them. MVP subsequently banned Shields from all future events, citing unacceptable physical contact between athletes at a guest event.
Shields, known as one of the most accomplished female boxers in history, took to social media and interviews to explain her side. “I didn’t sneak anybody. I was right there in her face,” she stated, claiming Baumgardner had threatened her directly after prolonged online disrespect. Shields emphasized that she does not condone violence but will not remain silent when provoked. She has threatened legal action for defamation against both Baumgardner and those misrepresenting the event.
Baumgardner, on the other hand, described the slap as an unprovoked physical assault and indicated she may pursue legal recourse. The rivalry between the two has simmered for years, fueled by social media jabs and debates over supremacy in women’s boxing.
This high-profile clash has sparked widespread discussion about professionalism, rivalries, and conduct outside the ring in combat sports. While some view Shields’ response as justified self-defense in a tense moment, others criticize it as crossing the line. As both sides trade legal threats, the boxing world watches closely to see if this escalates further or leads to a long-awaited showdown in the ring.
