Undisputed champion Claressa Shields faces suspension after testing positive for marijuana post-fight
Claressa Shields, the undefeated American boxing sensation, has been suspended from competing in Michigan after testing positive for marijuana. The 29-year-old, a three-weight undisputed champion, provided an oral fluid sample following her heavyweight victory over Danielle Perkins on 3 February, which later returned a positive result.
The Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission wasted no time in taking action, immediately suspending Shields from fighting in the state while launching an investigation into possible disciplinary measures. The situation has cast a shadow over her otherwise unblemished record in the sport.
Marijuana remains banned in competition under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, despite ongoing debates about its classification as a performance-enhancing drug. Shields’ case has drawn comparisons to American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, who famously missed the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 after receiving a one-month suspension for a similar offence.
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has also stepped in, requesting Shields provide a formal explanation. However, as a sanctioning body, it lacks the authority to impose direct punishment, leaving her fate in the hands of the Michigan Commission.
The commission did not hold back in its assessment of the situation, releasing a damning statement: “Ms Shields’ conduct as a licensed professional boxer constitutes an imminent threat to the integrity of professional boxing, the public interest, and the welfare and safety of professional athletes.”
Shields had already attempted to quash speculation last week, taking to social media to deny any wrongdoing. “I’m a clean athlete,” she insisted, brushing off the growing rumours about a failed drug test. Now, the reality of the situation has been laid bare, and the spotlight is firmly on how she chooses to respond.
BBC Sport has contacted Shields for comment, but as of yet, she has not publicly addressed the suspension or the commission’s ongoing investigation.
The controversy threatens to disrupt what has been a historic career. Shields first burst onto the scene at just 17 years old, winning Olympic gold in 2012 before securing a second gold in 2016. Since turning professional, she has rewritten the record books, becoming the first boxer—male or female—to hold undisputed titles in three different weight classes in the four-belt era.
Her dominance in the ring has been unquestionable, with a flawless record of 16 wins and no losses. However, this latest development raises serious questions about the immediate future of her career and whether any further repercussions could follow.
Under the WBC’s clean boxing programme, Shields and Perkins were subject to testing by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA), which operates independently of WADA regulations. If VADA were to take further action, it could complicate Shields’ ability to fight in other jurisdictions.
For now, the immediate concern is whether Michigan authorities will impose further sanctions, potentially derailing her future fights. If the suspension extends beyond the state level, it could put major bouts—including potential undisputed title defences—at risk.
Shields has built a career on defying the odds, but this may be her toughest fight yet—one outside the ring, with her reputation and legacy on the line.
