Claressa Shields: Battling Online Bullying and Rising to Glory in the Boxing World
Claressa Shields, one of the most decorated boxers of our time, has faced numerous battles inside the ring and beyond it. Recently, she took to Instagram Live to address a painful subject—online bullying. As a public figure, especially one who has shattered records in the world of sports, Shields has often been at the receiving end of harsh criticism. Despite her success, she revealed that light-skinned women on social media target her the most, calling her “ugly” and offering little support. Her frustration was palpable during her Instagram Live, though her defiance shone through. She made it clear that she doesn’t care about the negativity, but it’s clear that being constantly under scrutiny can take a toll.
Shields’ decision to speak out about her experiences with online bullying is an important moment, as it highlights an issue that many public figures face in the age of social media. For a champion like Claressa, who has dedicated her life to breaking barriers in sports, enduring this kind of negativity is not only unfair but also a painful reminder of how some individuals target others based on factors like appearance or success. However, despite these challenges, Claressa has continued to rise above and forge a path that inspires millions of people, especially women of color, to stand tall and stay true to themselves.
Claressa Shields: The Rise of a Champion
Claressa Shields’ career is a testament to her skill, perseverance, and desire to break barriers. Born with an undeniable talent in boxing, Shields quickly made her mark in the sport, achieving what few athletes, male or female, have ever accomplished. She has held multiple world championships in five weight classes, making history as the undisputed female middleweight champion, as well as the undisputed female light middleweight champion. In 2025, Shields added the undisputed female heavyweight title to her collection, further cementing her place as a trailblazer in the world of boxing.
Her career achievements are remarkable. Shields is the only boxer in history to hold all four major world titles (WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO) in three different weight classes. As of October 2022, she is ranked the world’s best active female middleweight by BoxRec and the best active female boxer, pound for pound, by ESPN and The Ring. This success follows an impressive amateur career where she won gold medals in the middleweight division at both the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, making her the first American female boxer to win consecutive Olympic golds.
The Weight of Online Hate
However, it’s important to remember that even champions like Claressa Shields aren’t immune to the realities of online bullying. In her recent Instagram Live session, Shields opened up about the pain she feels from the bullying she faces on social media, particularly from light-skinned women. She revealed how some people online call her “ugly” and try to undermine her accomplishments, feeding into the toxic culture that can affect even the strongest individuals. While she made it clear that she doesn’t let the hate bother her, the frustration in her voice was evident.
Shields’ experience highlights a broader issue that many public figures face today. In an age where social media offers a platform for anyone to voice their opinion, people often target others based on appearance, race, or success. For a woman like Shields, who has broken down numerous barriers as a Black woman in the world of boxing, this kind of treatment can be especially hurtful. However, she’s also used it as fuel to continue her work and show others that no matter what the critics say, you can rise above and achieve greatness.
Love and Public Scrutiny: Claressa Shields and Papoose
In addition to her boxing career, Claressa Shields’ personal life has also garnered attention, particularly her relationship with Brooklyn rapper Papoose. The couple’s romance, which was initially kept private, came to light in 2024 when Papoose’s estranged wife, Remy Ma, confirmed their relationship on social media. While some of Shields’ fans and critics alike have commented on her relationship, it’s clear that this aspect of her life has placed her in an even bigger spotlight.
Shields has since spoken openly about her love for Papoose. With the couple seen together at various public events, including Hawaii Fest in 2025. Their relationship, much like her boxing career, is being followed closely by fans and the media. As the first openly public couple in the world of combat sports, their romance is adding another layer to Shields’ already high profile. It’s no secret that dating someone as well-known as Papoose has increased Shields’ visibility. Further, bringing her even more attention on social media—both positive and negative.
However, for Shields, this added spotlight isn’t just about the relationship—it’s about her growth as a person. Despite the increased scrutiny, she remains focused on her goals, both professionally and personally. While some may attempt to use her relationship as another avenue for criticism, Claressa Shields continues to show that she’s not just a champion in the ring—she’s a champion in life, handling every curveball with grace and resilience.
Breaking Barriers in Boxing and Beyond
Claressa Shields‘ boxing career has already secured her place in history. She became the first boxer, male or female, to hold all four major world titles in three different weight classes. Her stunning victory against Ema Kozin in 2022, where she retained her titles in a dominant performance, was one of many moments that cemented her legacy. She continued to showcase her superiority in the ring with a unanimous decision victory over Savannah Marshall in October 2022, becoming the undisputed middleweight world champion.
In 2024, Shields made history once again by winning the WBC heavyweight title and added another monumental achievement in 2025, becoming the only boxer—male or female—to hold undisputed titles in three different weight classes. These accomplishments have made her a trailblazer for women in boxing, proving that hard work and determination can break barriers in a male-dominated sport.
But Shields’ impact goes beyond the boxing ring. As she continues to fight her battles in the ring and on social media, she’s showing the world that being true to yourself is the most powerful weapon you have. In both her personal and professional life, Shields is breaking down walls and proving that no amount of online bullying or public scrutiny can stop her from achieving greatness.
The Unstoppable Claressa Shields
Claressa Shields is more than just a boxer—she is a symbol of resilience and empowerment. Despite the online bullying and challenges she faces, she continues to break records and inspire people worldwide. Her journey, both inside and outside the ring, is a reminder that success comes with obstacles, but with determination and courage, you can overcome anything.
As Claressa Shields continues to make waves in boxing and beyond, her story is far from finished. With the support of her fans, Shields proves that no matter how many battles you face—whether in the ring or online—you have the power to rise above and become unstoppable.
