Claressa Shields returns to middleweight to challenge unified champion Kaye Scott on Aug. 15

It was announced on Wednesday that Shields will drop back down to middleweight for the first time since June 2023 when she challenges WBA/WBC champion Kaye Scott on Saturday. Aug. 15 from the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, live and exclusively on DAZN.

Back in February, Shields (18-0, 3 KOs) dominated Franchon Crews-Dezurn to retain her undisputed heavyweight titles. The decision was made to return to middleweight for the two-time Olympic gold medalist, five-division world champion, undisputed heavyweight champion, and the first boxer in the four-belt era—male or female—to become undisputed champion in three weight classes because Shields wants to continue to cement her standing among the greats.

"At this point in my career, every fight is about legacy," Shields said in a statement. Every fight now is about pushing the boundaries of what's possible—for myself, for women's boxing, and for the next generation coming behind me through Claressa Shields Promotions.

“Kaye Scott is a champion, and I respect what she's accomplished. But becoming undisputed at 160 pounds again starts with beating the best. That's always been my mindset. I don't chase easy fights, I choose meaningful ones.”

For Scott (5-1-1), this represents the biggest fight of her career. The native of Australia understands what's in front of her and plans on showing the world what she's all about.

“I’ve dedicated my life to the sport of boxing, achieving success with the Australian National Team and as a professional, " Scott said. I’m extremely proud to defend my WBC and WBA world title belts against Claressa Shields.

“I believe the bigger the challenge, the bigger the opportunity, and on August 15, I have the chance to show the world exactly what I’m capable of. I’m in the best shape of my life and ready to test myself against the very best. I’m excited, motivated, and prepared to step into that ring and prove that I am the best middleweight in the world.”

Zayas vs. Ennis - watch only on DAZN

Xander Zayas defends his WBO and WBA super welterweight titles against Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis on Saturday, June 27, exclusively live on DAZN. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Joshua vs. Prenga (July 25) and Canelo vs. M'billi (Sept 12) PPVs, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.

For more information, pricing, and to buy, click here.