Claressa Shields did what we all expected her to do on Saturday night, and then some. Shields captured the WBC and WBA middleweight title with a sixth-round TKO win over Kaye Scott in Atlanta. Shields’ hand speed and overall boxing acumen were too much for the Aussie, but it was this devastating left hook that sent Scott to the canvas.
Claressa Shields vs. Kaye Scott Key Facts
- Winner: Claressa Shields
- Opponent: Kaye Scott
- Result: TKO, Round 6
- Titles: WBC and WBA middleweight
- Stoppage: Scott’s corner threw in the towel
- Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
- Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
- Broadcast: DAZN main card
- Next target named: Lauren Price
- Undercard: Zeus Network portion, including Tesehki vs. Big Lex and Ray J vs. Orlando Brown
Both the WBC and the WBA middleweight belts were on the line, and Shields headlined a card that had already run a full Zeus undercard before the DAZN broadcast began. The matchup had been on the books since late July.
Scott made it to her feet and was allowed to continue, which wasn’t the greatest decision by the referee. No matter, seconds later Scott’s corner threw multiple towels in the ring to stop the fight. Shields erupted into celebration as she secured just the fourth stoppage win in her illustrious career.
It was an excellent performance from Shields and a valiant effort from Scott, but she was clearly overmatched.
This video caught the reactions from Floyd Mayweather Jr. and others after Shields secured the finish.
Shields made it clear, she wants to fight undefeated IBF and WBO welterweight champion Lauren Price next. The 32-year-old will likely have to come up or Shields will meet her at 154 pounds. If Shields can make it to 154 pounds, there’s even more fights available for her there against the likes of Mikaela Mayer and maybe even Cris Cyborg.
Price turned professional after winning Olympic gold and has not lost since.