Kaye Scott Defends Her WBC & WBA World Titles Against Claressa Shields

Kaye Scott Defends Her WBC & WBA World Middleweight Titles Against Claressa Shields

It is the chance of a lifetime for Kaye Scott. The Australian will defend her unified world middleweight titles against Claressa Shields on Saturday, August 15, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The fight will be shown live on DAZN.

The undisputed world heavyweight champion is dropping down to middleweight to take on the former elite amateur. After sharing the spoils in their first meeting, Scott won her rematch against Olivia Curry in December. A victory that earned her those two world middleweight titles, and that golden ticket against the former two-time Olympic champion and five-division world champion in the pro ranks.

“I’ve dedicated my life to the sport of boxing, achieving success with the Australian National Team and as a professional, ” Scott said in the Salita Promotions press release to formally announce the fight. “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 15th, 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.”

After her decorated amateur career ended, Scott turned professional in 2023 and has built up a solid record of 5-1-1. The 42-year-old has split two fights with Desley Robinson, who holds the IBF and WBO 160-pound baubles. That highly controversial draw with Curry is the only other blemish on her resume. Many, including this observer, had Scott winning that fight.

Claressa Shields (18-0) will undoubtedly start as a big betting favourite to once again become a middleweight champion of the world. But with the GWOAT campaigning at heavyweight for the last few years, the cut back down to 160 could be somewhat problematic for her. If so, and with her confidence seemingly at an all-time high, Kaye Scott could be in the right place at the right time.