Three weeks ago, professional boxer Claressa Shields cemented her legacy in the sport by becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion after delivering a knockout victory against Danielle Perkins. However, her triumph has now been overshadowed by controversy.
This week, the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission announced that Shields has been suspended after testing positive for marijuana.
According to a report by Sky Sports, the 29-year-old three-weight world champion provided a positive “oral fluid sample” for the banned substance following her victory on February 3 in Michigan. As a result, the Michigan Commission has launched an investigation into the matter.
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While the World Boxing Organization (WBO) does not have the authority to suspend fighters, the organization has requested a “show notice” from Shields, requiring her to provide an explanation for the test result. Meanwhile, the Michigan Commission has raised concerns about the potential impact of Shields’ case on the sport.
“Ms. Shields’ conduct as a licensed professional boxer constitutes an imminent threat to the integrity of professional boxing, the public interest, and the welfare and safety of professional athletes,” the Michigan Commission stated.
Shields has since taken to Xitter to deny the allegations, though further details regarding her response remain unclear.
