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“We Need Fellas to Have the Same Energy”: Boxing World Goes Wild as Friends Claressa Shields and Alycia Baumgardner Agree to Fight Over a Fans’ Request

Published Oct 8, 2023 | 1:52 PM EDT

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In professional boxing, everything is high stakes, including rigorous doping tests that ensure the integrity of the sport. So when undisputed champion Alycia Baumgardner faced an ‘Adverse Analytical Finding’ in a recent test, shockwaves hit the boxing community. Baumgardner adamantly denied any wrongdoing on Twitter, citing her clean record and a subsequent negative test. Amidst the unfolding controversy, fellow undisputed champion Claressa Shields stepped into the metaphorical ring to publicly back Baumgardner.

Shields lent her support to her longtime friend. As developments continue in the case, this episode spotlighted both the strict doping protocols and the strong bonds between the two boxing elites. Shields had her peer’s back when regulations went on the line. The two champions showed that women at the top level can both pack a mean punch and support each other outside the ring as well. Their solidarity highlighted the tight-knit camaraderie that can thrive even in an ultra-competitive sport. However, surprisingly, when a fan requested both of them to fight each other, they did not seem averse to the idea.

Claressa Shields vs. Alycia Baumgardner: Who do fans think is better?

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It all began when Baumgardner posted, “I’ll fight brackeus at 147/54.” Soon, a fan replied by saying that it’s an easy fight for her, and she should fight Claressa Shields instead. That’s when Alycia tweeted, “We can make it happen” tagging Shields’ Twitter handle. Replying to which, Shields said, “Yeah alright Alycia!” coupled with a laughing emoticon, thus driving fans into a frenzy at the possibility of this bout. Whether or not the bout will happen is questionable. However, one thing is clear: The possibility of a fight between the two has got fans talking.

Read More: Embracing Solitude: GWOAT Claressa Shields and Super Featherweight Champion Alycia Baumgardner Discuss the Power of Being Alone

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Ushering the wave of opinions, one fan loves both fighters but suggested that Baumgardner should face other opponents like “Serrano or Cameron” first before squaring up with the “GWOAT.” They also appreciated the current friendship between the two Michigan natives and weren’t ready to see them compete yet.

Transitioning to the broader scene, another fan praised the fearless attitude in women’s boxing and wished men would show the same enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, a third fan believes that a fight between Baumgardner and Shields would generate excitement.

However, another fan cautioned that weight classes are important, doubting Baumgardner’s ability to outperform Shields.

Furthermore, one fan was firmly in Baumgardner’s corner, showing their support for her. Overall, the fan reactions had a mix of caution as well as excitement, all while acknowledging the strong competition and camaraderie in women’s boxing.

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In a sport where every punch and test result matters, Alycia Baumgardner and Claressa Shields prove that fierce competition and friendship can coexist. They navigate doping controversies and fan expectations with grace. The recent episode of which shows that women’s boxing isn’t just about the bouts; it’s also about the bonds formed outside the ring. Whether they fight or not, Baumgardner and Shields keep fans talking and redefine what it means to be champions.

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What is your opinion of this fight? Do you think Alycia and Shields should fight each other?

Watch this story: These 5 Boxers Lost Over $4 Million in Fines

Written by:

Tanya Tewari

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Tanya Tewari is a Boxing Writer at EssentiallySports. With a BA Honors in Literature and Linguistics, she uniquely combines her love for writing with her fervor for boxing. Her experience as a content creator helps her bring a fan's perspective to the sport of boxing.
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Edited by:

Gokul Pillai