Undefeated Boxing Star Claressa Shields Becomes First Woman To Win MMA Bout In Saudi Arabia

• Claressa Shields is an undefeated boxing star who has become the first woman to clinch an MMA victory in Saudi Arabia
• Hailing from Flint, Michigan, USA, the 28-year-old won a split decision over Kelsey De Santis in the female MMA bout
• In an interview, Shields discussed the challenges she overcame before the accomplishment, including braving a near-snap of her arm in the gym

Undefeated boxing champion Claressa Shields has become the first woman to win a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) bout in Saudi Arabia.

She etched her name in history with the victory on February 24 when Shields defeated her contender Kelsey De Santis.

Per CNN, Shields’ victory adds another medal to her collection, bringing her total to 14-0 in boxing and 2-1 in mixed martial arts. This historic victory comes after her previous MMA battle against Abigail Montes in October 2021.

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Shields overcomes challenges

Reflecting on her hard-fought victory, Shields acknowledged the challenges of her training camp as she emphasised her deep respect for the sport and dedication she has poured into her MMA journey.

“It’s not easy what I’m trying to do, and I’ve been so respectful of the sport. I put in a lot of hard work; I’m returning to the gym to work harder,” she said, according to Because Of Them We Can.

Shields recalled how she defeated a setback when she almost got her arm snapped in the armbar. “I had to fight out of that.”

Her historic MMA bout is part of a more significant trend of female MMA fighters emerging in Saudi Arabia as conservative traditions are relaxed. The Flint, Michigan native remains a top contender, overcoming hurdles and inspiring a new generation of athletes.

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Besides the sports sector, women continue to set records in other fields. Dr Vera Mawusime Beyuo was named the Best Graduating Fellow during the 2024 West African College of Surgeons induction ceremony. She also swept several awards, including the Overall Best Medical Student, at the 10th Congregation of the University of Ghana College of Health Sciences

Athlete Winnifred Ntumi wins first gold for Ghana at 13th African Games

In a previous story, YEN.com.gh reported that Winnifred Ntumi, a beacon of Ghanaian sports, earned the country's first gold in the highly competitive women's 45 kg game at the prestigious 2023 African Games.

Her triumph is a testament to her skill and dedication, filling fans with immense pride and excitement.

Celebrated Ghanaian sports journalist Gary Al-Smith highlighted Ntumi's victory in the women's field.

Source: YEN.com.gh