Flint Native Claressa Shields Discusses WBC Heavyweight Title Bout in Exclusive Interview Ahead of Detroit Showdown

Flint's pride, Claressa Shields, has returned home ahead of her monumental WBC Heavyweight Title bout against defending champion Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse at Little Caesars Arena (LCA).

On Juneteenth, Shields brought her opponent to Flint's Dome behind City Hall for an intense face-off, witnessed by Mayor Sheldon Neeley, enthusiastic fans, and supportive loved ones.

During the event, Mayor Neeley affectionately hailed Shields as 'Flint's favorite daughter.'

Shields boasts an impressive record as a two-time Olympic gold medalist, three-time undisputed champion across three weight divisions, with an impeccable 14-0 record. This upcoming fight marks her debut in the heavyweight category.

A triumph at LCA would solidify Shields' legacy as a champion in four different weight classes.

Shields gave me some one-on-one time for an interview about her preparations for her upcoming bout. She also gives some great advice on how to become a great smack-talker. Check it out!

This fight will mark Shields' second appearance at LCA; the first sold just over 12,000 tickets. Organizers are anticipating breaking the 18,000-person attendance record this time. Notably, of the 12,000 tickets sold previously, only 1,000 were purchased from Flint. Shields aims to increase local support for her July fight.

Tickets to see the GWOAT on July 27 at LCA can be found here. And even luckier for you, we have tickets that you can enter to win!

See the photos from her press conference below!