Claressa Shields finally returned to PFL to win her third MMA fight. Although her opponent Kelsey DeSantis was seven years older than ‘T-Rex’, the former fought intelligently and managed to take Shields down. That DeSantis entered the match having fought four fights inside the cage previously was on full display as she tackled and put Shields in a fix at one point in the fight.

However, the 28-year-old stood her ground. Despite the pressure that DeSantis put on her, Claressa remained calm to overcome adversities. Likewise, when DeSantis almost trapped Claressa with an armbar, the boxer-turned-mixed-martial-artist patiently found her way out, leaving Amanda Serrano and fans impressed.

Two-time undisputed boxer, Claressa Shields fights back armbar in her PFL return

Early in the fight, Kelsey DeSantis took Claressa Shields down. Well, that was indeed praiseworthy. Since Shields was comfortable with boxing, DeSantis made a smart move by attempting a takedown. As expected, Shields struggled on the ground. However, the two-time Undisputed champion found her way back on her feet. Soon, ‘T-Rex’ decided to use her boxing skills and overwhelm her opponent inside the Smart Cage.

At one point, Shields threw a left jab and an overhand right to close the distance. Immediately, she then hit DeSantis with a couple of jabs and straight hands. Anyway, after DAZN posted the video of Shields surviving DeSantis’ armbar, several people positively reacted to it. Soon after Shields’ victory, fellow boxer Amanda Serrano took to X and congratulated Shields. Having been in the cage herself, Serrano declared it was “really hard going from Boxing to MMA“.

In addition, Serrano reminded everyone that with no wrestling, kicking, or jiu-jutsu skills, boxers overcome significant difficulties when they cross over to MMA. On the other hand, a fan thought Claressa Shields’ determination was impressive:

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Meanwhile, a fan thought Kelsey DeSantis did not make the adjustments she needed to finish Shields while on the ground.

On the other hand, a fan called Shields a warrior worthy of respect.

Finally, an impressed fan called Claressa Shields a queen.

With that being said, what did you think of Claressa Shields’ return to the PFL? Did she live up to everyone’s expectations? In your opinion, what was the most impressive aspect of her fighting? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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