Undisputed world champion Claressa Shields is opening up about her desire to start a family, revealing she is eager to balance her championship boxing career with motherhood.
During a candid appearance on Cam Newton’s “Funky Friday Podcast” on Aug. 7, Shields joked about her surprise that she has not yet become pregnant given her close relationship with partner and hip-hop artist Papoose. The 31-year-old boxing star, known as the “G.W.O.A.T.” (Greatest Woman of All Time), told Newton that she and Papoose spend significant time together whenever she is not away at training camp.
Shields said that when she visits his home for weeks at a time, their focus shifts away from the ring and toward their personal life, leading to her lighthearted comment about their efforts to conceive. “I think we enjoy eating together and a lot of times we just enjoy lounging around,” Shields said during the interview.
“Like, I’m surprised that I haven’t been pregnant yet. Seriously. Like, no. Like, for real.” Shields has been vocal for months about her intention to have children sooner rather than later. She previously told “The Pivot Podcast” that she has no interest in waiting until her 40s to start a family. She said she wants to be an active mother who can run at the park with her children, even if it means taking a brief hiatus from her dominant run in the professional boxing ranks.
The relationship between Shields and Papoose has evolved from a friendship into a deep romantic and professional partnership. The boxer credited Papoose with being instrumental in her business dealings, including helping her secure a lucrative four-fight deal with Wynn Records. That agreement includes an $8 million minimum, ensuring her financial future as she prepares for life outside the ring. Despite her domestic aspirations, Shields remains a formidable force in sports.
She is currently focused on her upcoming bout on Aug. 15 in Atlanta, where she will attempt to add two more world titles to her already historic collection. She said she remains “locked in” for the fight, maintaining the discipline required to stay at the top of the sport.
Shields has made history as the first boxer in the four-belt era to hold undisputed titles in two different weight classes simultaneously. While she plans to briefly step away for a pregnancy in the future, she has expressed confidence that she can return to the sport and continue her legacy after becoming a mother.
Papoose, who was formerly married to rapper Remy Ma, has been a constant fixture at Shields’ recent fights and training sessions. The couple has frequently shared their journey on social media, blending their lives in the entertainment and sports worlds. For now, Shields remains focused on the immediate task in Atlanta before turning her full attention to the next chapter of her personal life.
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