Cris Cyborg criticizes Claressa Shields over MMA departure

Mixed martial arts fighter Cris Cyborg has accused boxing champion Claressa Shields of abandoning MMA because the sport was too difficult. In social media posts shared on October 27, Cyborg claimed Shields chose the “easiest road possible” by returning to boxing instead of advancing her grappling skills.

Cyborg questioned Shields’ progress in Brazilian jiu-jitsu since her 2021 MMA debut and noted that both athletes have participated in eight boxing matches. While the two rivals have a history dating back to a 2018 sparring session, no professional contest has been signed between them in either sport. Shields holds a 1-1 record in the Professional Fighters League, with her most recent MMA appearance occurring in February 2024.