Undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields inked a landmark two-year promotional agreement reportedly worth a minimum of $8 million with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records, clearing a new path for women’s boxing. The deal was announced Thursday in New York.
Historic Contract, Broad Ambitions
Shields, the 30-year-old two-time Olympic gold medalist and undefeated in 17 professional bouts, called the agreement “more than just a contract, it’s a statement.”
“I’ve fought my entire career to prove that women’s boxing deserves equal respect, equal pay, and equal opportunity,” she said.
The terms guarantee a minimum of $8 million across multiple fights. A signing bonus of $3 million reportedly leads the upfront cash. The deal also ties Shields with Wynn Records, merging entertainment, culture and sport under one promotional umbrella.
For women’s boxing, the contract raises the bar. Dmitriy Salita, head of Salita Promotions, said the deal sets “a new standard for how fighters build their careers.” Shields becomes the highest-paid female boxer in terms of guaranteed multi-fight money in U.S. professional boxing.
The deal will see Shields fight “two or three times” in 2026, then possibly pause to start a family, she indicated. While specifics like opponents haven’t been announced, the contract provides flexibility for crossover opportunities and media extensions beyond the ring.
Shields said she models her earnings ambitions on the kind of payday that Floyd Mayweather Jr. achieved. “I’m trying to get to where I can make $50 million for one fight,” she declared.
Her next bout is expected early in 2026. With the contract in place, the focus now shifts to matchmaking, building media platforms and maximising the moment. “Together, we’re building something that’s never been done before,” Shields added.