Claressa Shields: First Woman to Win MMA Bout in Saudi Arabia

Claressa Shields, the undefeated boxing champion, made history by becoming the first woman to win a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) bout in Saudi Arabia. On February 24, she secured her place in the record books with a triumphant victory over her opponent, Kelsey De Santis.

As reported by CNN, Claressa Shields' triumph contributes another medal to her accolades, elevating her boxing record to 14-0 and her mixed martial arts record to 2-1. This significant win follows her earlier MMA bout with Abigail Montes in October 2021.

Shields Triumphs Over Adversity

Pondering her hard-earned triumph, Shields recognized the trials of her training camp while highlighting her profound reverence for the sport and the unwavering dedication she has invested in her MMA journey.

"What I'm aiming for isn't simple, and I've held the sport in high regard.

I've put in extensive effort; I'm heading back to the gym to push myself even further," she expressed, as reported by Because Of Them We Can.

Shields recounted a moment of adversity when she narrowly escaped having her arm snapped in an armbar.

"I had to battle my way out of that."

Her groundbreaking MMA match represents a broader trend of female MMA fighters emerging in Saudi Arabia as traditional norms evolve.

The Flint, Michigan native continues to shine as a leading contender, surmounting obstacles and igniting inspiration in a new wave of athletes.

Beyond the sports sector, women are breaking barriers in various fields.

Dr. Vera Mawusime Beyuo was honored as the Best Graduating Fellow at the 2024 West African College of Surgeons induction ceremony.

She also excelled by winning multiple awards, including Overall Best Medical Student, at the 10th Congregation of the University of Ghana College of Health Sciences.

Winnifred Ntumi Clinches Ghana's First Gold at 13th African Games

In a previous story, Winnifred Ntumi, a beacon of Ghanaian sports, earned the country's first gold in the highly competitive women's 45 kg game at the prestigious 2023 African Games.

Her triumph is a testament to her skill and dedication, filling fans with immense pride and excitement.

Celebrated Ghanaian sports journalist Gary Al-Smith highlighted Ntumi's victory in the women's field.

Source: yen