Undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, five-division world champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields has decided to stay with the same promoter she started with, signing a historic $8 million guaranteed minimum multi-fight deal with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records.
“This deal is more than just a deal, it’s a statement,” Shields said after the deal was announced. “I have fought my entire career to prove that women’s boxing deserves equal respect, equal pay and equal opportunity. Partnering with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records gives me a platform to continually break down barriers in and out of the ring. Together we are building something that has never been achieved before.”
Shields (17-0, 3 KO) is ranked No. 1 among women’s boxers by ESPN. She considered the concept of free agency after her undisputed heavyweight title defense over Lani Daniels in July, but opted to stay with her first and only promoter, Dmitriy Salita.
“Claressa Shields is one of the greatest athletes of our generation,” Salita said. “Her influence extends far beyond sports, and this partnership reflects that strength. Our goal is to combine boxing, culture and music to elevate the sport and its athletes beyond the customary sports pages. This partnership with Wynn will create unique opportunities for fighters and provide fresh, immersive experiences for boxing fans. Together with Wynn Records, we are creating a blueprint for the future – where promoters, athletes and partners work together to achieve success that would not otherwise be possible.”
Wynn Records is a music promotion agency that employs several artists, including Shields’ boyfriend, Papoose. She is the first athlete to sign a contract with the agency.
“Claressa’s story, talent and determination embody everything our brand stands for,” said Ruben Branson, owner and CEO of Wynn Records. “We are proud to stand alongside her as she makes history. Together, we are setting a up-to-date standard for what is possible in sports.”
According to reports, Shields, 30, had several suitors when she hit the free agency market, but she decided to stay home and work with a music agency on a up-to-date multi-fight deal. There has been no announcement yet on how many fights are included in the deal or who Shields will face when he returns to the ring in early 2026. Shields sought to secure a fight against retired two-division champion Laila Ali, reportedly offering $15 million. However, Ali rejected the proposed fight.