Shields vs. Crews-Dezurn 2: A Historic Night for Women’s Boxing

Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena is set to host a landmark event in women’s boxing this Sunday, February 22, 2026, headlined by the rematch between Claressa Shields and Franchon Crews-Dezurn. The event, featuring an 11-bout card with six female fights, signifies a growing momentum for women’s sports and a commitment to increased visibility and opportunity for female boxers.

A Decade in the Making: Shields and Crews-Dezurn Renew Rivalry

Nearly a decade after their professional debuts against each other in 2016, Claressa Shields (17-0) and Franchon Crews-Dezurn (10-2) will once again share the ring. Shields won their first encounter by unanimous decision. This rematch carries significantly higher stakes, with Shields’ Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship on the line. Boxing Insider provides a detailed preview of the fight.

Shields’ Landmark Contract and Commitment to Women’s Boxing

Shields enters this fight fresh off signing a historic $8 million, multi-fight contract with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records – the largest contract in women’s boxing history. The Detroit News reports that Shields has consistently championed opportunities for women in the sport, ensuring an all-women’s card was staged even ten years ago when she first turned professional.

Undercard Highlights and Rising Stars

The card is stacked with compelling matchups beyond the main event. Danielle Perkins will face WBA light heavyweight world champion Che Kenneally (5-0) in a title defense. Perkins previously fought Shields in a ten-round bout in 2025, losing by unanimous decision. Sporting News details the undercard matchups.

Samantha “The Heat” Worthington (12-0) will defend her WBA interim super lightweight world title against Edith Soledad Matthysse (20-16-1). Additional bouts include Savannah Tini (6-0) versus Vaida Masiokaite (20-16-1) and Ann Arbor’s Jasmine Hampton (1-0) competing in her second professional fight after a decorated amateur career.

Event Details and Viewing Information

The event begins at 4:30 p.m. With doors opening at 4 p.m. At Little Caesars Arena. Streaming begins on DAZN at 8 p.m., with Shields and Crews-Dezurn expected to enter the ring after 10 p.m. More than 15,000 tickets have been sold. Tickets are available at 313presents.com and ticketmaster.com.

“These are two gladiators putting it all on the line,” said Papoose, a Wynn Records executive and Shields’ boyfriend. “This is going to be an amazing night not just for women’s boxing, but for boxing as a whole.”