VIDEO: Claressa Shields knocks out Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse to become Heavyweight champion

LockerRoom Team

28 Jul 2024

Claressa Shields (14-0, 2 KOs) delivered a stunning performance to claim the WBC heavyweight world championship in a thrilling bout against Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse (7-1, 2 KOs). The fight, held in Shields' home state of Michigan, was a showcase of her exceptional skills and power.

The atmosphere was electric as Shields made her entrance, flanked by the Detroit Pistons' drumline and Detroit artist Dej Loaf, who performed her hit song "Try Me." The excitement continued as the bell rang, signaling the start of the highly anticipated 10-round fight, with each round lasting two minutes.

Shields began aggressively, using her jab to set up combinations and quickly taking control of the bout. Lepage-Joanisse started cautiously, but Shields sensed the opportunity and unleashed a series of powerful punches, dominating the opening round. 

In the second round, Lepage-Joanisse attempted to press forward but paid dearly for her efforts. Shields landed a precise right hand to the temple, dropping the champion to the canvas. Lepage-Joanisse managed to get back on her feet, only to be floored again by a hard overhand right from Shields. With Lepage-Joanisse's corner on the brink of throwing in the towel, Shields delivered a third knockdown, prompting the referee to stop the fight.

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"I shocked myself. I'm not gonna lie," Shields told DAZN after the fight. "I put her down three times, so hey, the GWOAT stays."

What do you think of her performance? Let us know in the comments below.