PFL Europe: Claressa Shields in Newcastle as rival Savannah Marshall makes MMA debut

Shields and Marshall famously boxed for the undisputed middleweight titles back in October 2022.

On that occasion, it was the American who reigned supreme with a unanimous decision victory.

Before her meeting with Marshall, Shields had already competed in two MMA bouts for the PFL.

The former Olympian defeated Brittney Elkin on her debut back in June 2021, but lost her second outing against Abigail Montes just a few months later.

Shields recently returned to the Smart Cage as she defeated Kelsey DeSantis by split decision back in February.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist has already announced her return to boxing, but that doesn’t mean she is giving up on MMA.

On the contrary, Shields is expected to face her long-time rival Marshall in the cage, depending on how the Brit progresses in the sport.

Marshall will make her MMA debut in Newcastle as she main events PFL Europe 2 against Brazil’s Mirela Vargas.

Shields is in the city of Newcastle and met face-to-face with Marshall during the ceremonial weigh-ins at St James’ Park.

The American is expected to be cage-side for Marshall’s debut as the organisation looks to hype a potential blockbuster rematch between the two women.