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The Mount Rushmore of Women’s Boxing: Claressa Shields’ Bold Picks
Over the years, boxing fans have debated endlessly about who belongs on the “Mount Rushmore” of the sport. Whether it’s the men’s side, where names like Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Henry Armstrong are often discussed, or more niche debates within specific divisions and eras, the question of who stands atop the sport is one that sparks passionate debate. Now, in an unexpected but exciting twist, we’ve got our very own Mount Rushmore of women’s boxing, as chosen by one of the sport’s greatest champions, Claressa Shields.
Shields, an unbeaten multi-weight world champion who calls herself the “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All-Time), made waves recently by sharing her take on the all-time greats in women’s boxing during an interview with DAZN News. “Right now, if there’s a Mount Rushmore of women’s boxers, I would say it’s myself, Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano, and maybe Mikaela Mayer,” Shields said. She even threw in a possible fifth candidate, Savannah Marshall, explaining that all of these fighters have strong fanbases and are supportive of one another.
So, who are the women that made it onto Shields’ list? Let’s break it down:
1. Claressa Shields: The GWOAT
It’s no surprise that Shields placed herself on her own Mount Rushmore. With a perfect professional record, multiple world championships across different weight classes, and an Olympic gold medal to her name, Shields has proven herself as one of the greatest female boxers in history. Her self-assuredness and drive have earned her widespread recognition, and fans around the world now regard her as the face of women’s boxing. If there’s anyone to claim the title of the GWOAT, it’s hard to argue against Shields’ inclusion.
2. Katie Taylor: The Pioneer
From Ireland, Katie Taylor is a name that resonates with boxing fans across the globe. Often credited with helping to bring women’s boxing into the mainstream, Taylor’s unparalleled technical ability and relentless fighting spirit have made her a star. A multi-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, Taylor has paved the way for future generations of female boxers and deserves a spot on any list of all-time greats. Her rivalry with Amanda Serrano in 2022, which saw them headline Madison Square Garden, was a historic moment that exemplified the growth of women’s boxing.
3. Amanda Serrano: The Powerhouse
Puerto Rico’s Amanda Serrano is a true powerhouse in the ring. Known for her incredible knockout ability and dominant performances, Serrano has won world titles across a staggering seven weight classes, making her one of the most accomplished boxers—male or female—in history. Her aggressive, action-packed style has earned her a loyal following, and her bouts with Taylor have given her the global spotlight she deserves. Serrano’s versatility and determination make her a natural fit for Shields’ Mount Rushmore.
4. Mikaela Mayer: The Rising Star
Mikaela Mayer might be one of the younger fighters on the list, but her achievements in the ring make her a standout. A former WBO junior lightweight champion, Mayer’s combination of skill, athleticism, and heart has placed her among the top female fighters today. Although her career is still evolving, her impressive win streak and high-level performances against top competitors have made her a force to be reckoned with in women’s boxing.
5. Savannah Marshall: The Rival
Though not officially on Shields’ four-person list (due to the rules of the Mount Rushmore concept), Shields did mention Savannah Marshall as a potential contender. The British fighter is known for her knockout power and, perhaps more significantly, her dominant win over Shields in the amateurs. Though their rivalry has yet to translate into a professional showdown, Marshall’s inclusion in Shields’ list speaks to the respect between the two fighters, and her place in history is only likely to grow.
The Case for Other Legends
While Shields’ list is certainly filled with modern-day titans, many fans may argue that other legendary women boxers deserve recognition. Fighters like Christy Martin, Laila Ali, and Holly Holm paved the way for the current generation, breaking down barriers and proving that women could be just as thrilling to watch as their male counterparts. Additionally, Cecilia Braekhus, a multi-time world champion from Norway, has been one of the most dominant forces in women’s boxing for over a decade.
These names represent the foundations upon which women’s boxing stands today. The debate over who belongs on the “Mount Rushmore” of women’s boxing is sure to continue for years to come, but for now, Claressa Shields’ picks are certainly a bold and compelling starting point.
Who do you think should be on the women’s boxing Mount Rushmore? Let us know your picks and join the conversation!
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