Claressa Shields returns to her hometown of Flint, Michigan, to face Danielle Perkins for the Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship on Sunday, February 2, 2025. This historic fight will be streamed live globally on DAZN from the Dort Financial Center.
Shields, already an undisputed champion in two weight classes, has the opportunity to become the first boxer ever to achieve undisputed status in three divisions. Opposing her is Brooklyn’s Danielle Perkins, an undefeated 6-foot powerhouse looking to pull off a major upset.
Fight Overview: Shields Aims for History
Claressa Shields: The Road to Three-Time Undisputed Champion
Claressa Shields (15-0, 2 KOs) made her heavyweight debut in dominant fashion, scoring a knockout over Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse. Now, the two-time Olympic gold medalist is looking to add another milestone to her legacy.
“This is about more than just another title,” said Shields. “This is history. Becoming undisputed in three different weight classes is something no boxer has ever done. That’s what I fight for—greatness. February 2 is going to be special.”
Shields has already cemented herself as one of the greatest female fighters of all time, but a win in Flint would set her apart in boxing history.
Danielle Perkins: The Challenger with Power
Danielle Perkins (5-0, 1 KO) presents a serious challenge with her size and athletic background. A former professional basketball player, Perkins transitioned to boxing and quickly established herself as a top contender.
“I respect Claressa, but I’m here to take that crown,” said Perkins. “I’ve fought and won at every level I’ve competed in. This is my moment. I’m coming to Flint to shock the world.”
Perkins last fought in July 2024, earning a dominant decision win over Christianne Fahey. She now looks to take the biggest step of her career and dethrone the sport’s biggest star.
Co-Main Event: Brandon Moore vs. Skylar Lacy for USBA Heavyweight Title
The co-main event features Brandon Moore (16-1, 10 KOs) making his Salita Promotions debut against Skylar Lacy (8-0-2, 6 KOs) for the vacant USBA Heavyweight Title.
Moore, a towering 6-foot-6 heavyweight, comes in off two straight TKO victories, including a November 2024 stoppage of Miguel Viloria. Coming from a family of elite athletes, Moore aims to make a statement in his first fight under his new promotional banner.
“This is my time,” said Moore. “The heavyweight division is heating up, and I plan to put my name in that conversation. Lacy is tough, but I’m walking out of Flint with that title.”
Lacy, an undefeated rising contender, believes he has what it takes to pull off the upset.
“I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this,” said Lacy. “Moore is big, but I have the skills to break him down. February 2, I’m leaving with the belt.”
Women’s Boxing on Display
- Caroline Veyre (8-1) vs. Carmen Vargas (5-2-1) – WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title
- Ashleyann Lozada (Debut) vs. Denise Moran (3-0) – Lozada makes her professional debut
- Samantha Worthington (10-0, 7 KOs) vs. Vaida Masiokaite (10-26-1, 1 KO) – Super Lightweight Division
“Women’s boxing is stronger than ever,” said Shields. “This card is proof of that. We’re putting on a show from top to bottom.”
Michigan Fighters Take the Stage
Michigan’s best rising talents are also in action:
- Joseph Hicks (11-0, 7 KOs) vs. Keon Papillion (10-0-1, 7 KOs) – Welterweight showdown
- Joshua James Pagan (11-0, 4 KOs) vs. Ronal Ron (16-7, 13 KOs)
- Leon Lawson III (16-1, 9 KOs) vs. Christopher Thompson (9-2, 6 KOs)
- Jaquan McElroy (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Nathan Mitchell (1-3, 1 KO)
DAZN Flash Sale: Discounted Subscription for Boxing Fans
From January 24 to February 3, DAZN is offering 30% off annual plans for subscribers in the United States and United Kingdom. This limited-time offer provides fight fans with an affordable way to catch all the action in 2025.
How to Watch and Attend
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025
- Time: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT / 1 AM GMT (February 3)
- Venue: Dort Financial Center, Flint, Michigan
Viewing Options
- Broadcast: Live on DAZN
Tickets
- Available: Online or at the Dort Financial Center box office
Key Points
- Shields vs. Perkins for the Undisputed Heavyweight Title – Shields aims to make history.
- Brandon Moore vs. Skylar Lacy – USBA Heavyweight Title fight in the co-main event.
- Four women’s bouts, including title fights for Caroline Veyre and Samantha Worthington.
- Michigan fighters showcased, including Joseph Hicks and Leon Lawson III.
- DAZN flash sale offers 30% off annual plans for fight fans.
Summary
- Event: Claressa Shields vs. Danielle Perkins
- Date: February 2, 2025
- Time: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT / 1 AM GMT (February 3)
- Venue: Dort Financial Center, Flint, Michigan
- How to Watch: Live on DAZN
- Tickets: Available online or at the venue
While Shields has an impressive track record, her move to heavyweight raises questions about her ability to compete against a physically imposing fighter like Perkins. Experience alone may not be enough; size and strength are critical in this division.
I’m beyond excited for this fight! Claressa Shields is an inspiration, and it’s incredible to see women’s boxing getting the recognition it deserves. This matchup with Danielle Perkins promises to be thrilling. I can’t wait for February 2!
I disagree with the notion that Shields’ past accomplishments matter here. This fight is about current form and the heavyweight division’s unique demands. Perkins has been undefeated and has the physical tools necessary to exploit Shields’ weaknesses.
While Claressa Shields is an incredible athlete, it’s misguided to think her experience will guarantee a victory against Danielle Perkins. Size and strength play a crucial role in heavyweight boxing, and Perkins has the advantage in both.
Perkins may have the size advantage, but Shields’ technical skills and experience against top-level competition cannot be overlooked. This isn’t just about brute strength; it’s also about strategy and boxing IQ, which Shields possesses in abundance.
While I appreciate the hype around this fight, let’s not pretend that Claressa moving up in weight means she’s guaranteed a win. Perkins might be undefeated, but she’s yet to face a true champion like Shields. This could end up being more one-sided than everyone thinks.