On January 23, Detroit felt electric as boxing royalty returned home. At the Detroit Auto Show, three-time undisputed heavyweight champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields stepped onto the press conference stage with confidence, clarity, and purpose. The moment wasn’t just about an upcoming fight — it was about legacy, community, and proving once again why she is the G.W.O.A.T.

Shields was in the city to speak on her highly anticipated showdown against Franchón Crews-Dezurn, set for February 22 at Little Caesars Arena. Sharing the stage with her opponent, Shields remained composed and respectful, making it clear this matchup is about excellence, not ego.

That connection was undeniable. The room echoed with pride — a champion speaking directly to the city that continues to embrace her.

“That this is going to be a good fight,” she said. “She’s strong and talented, and I have a lot of respect for her.”

Despite the rising intensity of fight week energy, Shields explained how she stays locked in.

“I just stay focused on the goal,” she shared. “I’ve been through a lot in my childhood, so I’m used to tuning out distractions.”

“I self-motivate,” she said. “I have a close relationship with God, and I’m consistent with what I eat, how I work out, and the company I keep.”

“We as women, especially Black women, have to stand for each other,” she said. “There are so many odds against us. It doesn’t build our culture by bad-mouthing each other. What I want to do is show people how you can uplift, be positive, and still be the best.”

As the press conference came to a close, I asked what fans should expect on February 22.

Her answer was simple — and chilling.

“They’ll see why I’m the G.W.O.A.T.”

With Detroit behind her and history on the line, Claressa Shields isn’t just preparing for another fight — she’s preparing for another moment that defines greatness.

Thank you for your time, Champ.