Promoter Dmitriy Salita has declared a Claressa Shields vs. Mikaela Mayer fight "very realistic" this year, calling it the potential "biggest fight in women's boxing." The bout hinges on Shields successfully defending her undisputed world heavyweight titles against Franchon Crews Dezurn in Detroit on February 22.

Shields, a five-weight world champion, and Mayer, a unified super-welterweight champion, have both expressed strong desire to make the fight. The primary logistical hurdle is agreeing on a weight class, as Mayer last competed at 154 pounds. Salita insists this is not an unrealistic obstacle, noting both sides are aligned on making a "serious, meaningful conversation" happen.

This potential showdown represents a massive financial and cultural moment. Shields signed an $8m promotional contract with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records last November, a deal reflecting her star power. A fight between two dominant, multi-weight American champions would instantly become the sport's marquee event, capable of headlining major arenas and significantly advancing the commercial profile of women's boxing.