Shields and Cornejo- fighting the merry dance!

Undisputed world middleweight champion Claressa Shields and No. 1 ranked contender Maricela Cornejo came face to face for the first time at the final press conference for their bout this Saturday, June 3, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. It won’t be a waltz and they weren’t short of a word or two.

Claressa Shields:

“I am facing a young, tall and intelligent opponent. I want to thank Maricela for accepting this challenge and coming here. I know that she is always in shape. It’s going to be a real fight.

“I know she said that she wants to come out and dance, but she’s going to dance alone because I come to fight. She can dance all she wants, but I came to throw punches and show my skills.

“We are just a little away from the fight and there is not much more to say. Boxing is changing. To have this fight here in front of thousands of fans in Detroit is amazing.

“I am happy and excited for this fight. I am looking forward to putting on a show and proving that I am the best once again.”

Maricela Cornejo:

“When I got the call, I was getting ready for another fight, so we were coming to the end of camp anyway. This is not something last minute for me, because I am always ready. I always stay in the gym. I live, eat and breathe boxing.

“I am ready for this opportunity and there are no excuses for Saturday night. Claressa has done a lot for the sport of boxing and everyone in the sport is trying to do our part. Our responsibility is to make a difference in the sport and that is what we are trying to do. You need a good dance partner to do that. When they called, I said I was ready to dance.

“I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that this is the perfect time for me. I am ready to be crowned world champion.”

The fight is organized by Salita Promotions and will be televised on DAZN.