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“I think it’s my job to show that every weight class in women’s boxing is fun. From heavyweight to flyweight to strawweight, we all have skills, we all have hands, we can fight, we all have technique.”

“Adding the undisputed heavyweight world champion to the name of Claressa Shields has definitely broadened my brand. I can say I’m the United States heavyweight champion, and when you think of American heavyweight champion, you think of the greats: Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Evander Holyfield. Just adding my name to the women’s side is still really big, really great,” she said.

“And to become the first undisputed female heavyweight champion in the history of boxing. I think I’ve already been black enough. Now I’m history. I’m with someone like Jack Johnson, the first black heavyweight champion.

“So, I’m boxing’s first black female heavyweight champion. I embrace that wholeheartedly and I want to continue to defend my title. And I’m wearing it strong. Do you know what to do?”

“She’s number one in her weight class at 168 pounds. She beat heavy hitter Shadasia Green, who everyone said was the queen of that division,” Shields said.

“She is a top competitor, she continues to get better and she always wants to win. When you fight Franchon, you know there will be bumps, there will be bruises, you might get thrown to the ground. Franchon is a tough, solid fighter and she is very experienced.

“If I’m too good for my own good, I only get better. So there’s nothing I can do about it. I like winning by unanimous decision. I like knocking women out. I like dominating. I think it’ll be good for my resume. I don’t like fighting up close.”

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