By Dane McGuire
A top-tier women’s boxing rematch could be coming to MMA’s Professional Fighters League. The PFL signed former opponent of boxing GWOAT Claressa Shields, Savannah Marshall.
The signing was a dual announcement that included the launch of the female exclusive PFLW.
The offshoot will feature Marshall, Shields, the face of the PFL in Kayla Harrison, PFL World Champion Larissa Pacheco, and fellow world-class boxer, Amanda Serrano. Marshall is signed to a multi-year deal but the details were not disclosed.
It’s an exciting time for PFL as we officially launch PFLW, and the addition of Savannah Marshall strengthens the best global roster of women in combat sports,” PFL CEO Peter Murray said in a statement. “PFLW is committed to the empowerment and equality of all female athletes and provides a dedicated platform for women to become PFL MMA champions.”
“I am thrilled to begin my journey in MMA with The Professional Fighters League. I am proud to join the most talented female combat sports athletes in the world and continue to raise the profile of women in sports through PFLW,” Marshall said.
Shields re-signed with the PFL earlier in August. She spoke to DAZN recently and said of a Marshall MMA bout:
“I’ve been doing MMA for two years. As soon as I stand her up in there, I’m going right for her legs. With Savannah, she wants to do everything I do. She wants her life to be intertwined with me so bad.You’re 30, and now you want to do MMA? She just wants to be connected with me, she wants to wrestle with me. I would gladly kick her a–, again. Why not?”
Serrano’s signing was announced August 2 and Shields re-signing was announced August 9. In Serrano’s announcement there was clarification that she would compete in the soon-to-launch PFL PPV Super Fight Division. PFLW wasn’t announced until August 22.
“I joined the PFL PPV Super Fight Division because of their revolutionary format that empowers fighters like never before. The PFL’s commitment to promoting high-profile, pay-per-view events with some of the biggest MMA stars in the world showcases an incredible opportunity to elevate my career to new heights and prove my ability beyond just the ring.
I may be known for boxing, but I’ve always loved and trained in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu, knowing those skills would only add to my ability when going against any opponent,” Serrano said. “The League’s commitment to gender equality, providing equal opportunities and recognition of female fighters, is also a driving force behind my decision. I can’t wait to step back into the cage and deliver thrilling performances and unforgettable moments for fans around the world.”
In boxing, Shields and Marshall each have wins over the other. Shields won Marshall’s undisputed middleweight title back in October.