Undisputed super middleweight champion Savannah Marshall is set to follow in the footsteps of other top female fighters by entering the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Currently ranked as ESPN’s No. 10 pound-for-pound fighter, Marshall recently announced her signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in order to compete in both boxing and MMA. With her first MMA fight expected to take place in 2024, Marshall hopes to elevate her profile and seize new opportunities in the world of combat sports.
Marshall’s decision to explore MMA stems from her view that female boxing has plateaued in terms of progress. Marveling at the opportunities that her friend Molly McCann received in the UFC, Marshall sought a new challenge and contemplated a move to MMA. Although she only has limited experience in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA, the PFL’s reputation as one of the biggest organizations in the sport convinced her that this was the right platform to take her career to the next level.
After her fight against Claressa Shields, the current No. 1 pound-for-pound female boxer, Marshall captured the attention of the PFL. Following extensive negotiations, a multi-fight deal was reached between Marshall and the organization. While she acknowledges that there will be a learning curve, Marshall is excited about delving into a second combat sport from the ground up. Training alongside McCann and other fighters, Marshall experienced her first submission by chokehold, which intensified her curiosity and piqued her interest in MMA.
Despite her venture into MMA, Marshall emphasizes that boxing will remain her main priority. She intends to build her MMA career around her boxing endeavors. However, both disciplines are currently on hold due to a hand injury sustained during her victory against Franchon Crews-Dezurn. The injury, which required surgery, prevents her from training for either sport for the next couple of months. As a result, Marshall is unlikely to compete again until early next year.
Marshall’s next boxing match is expected to be against Shadasia Green, ESPN’s No. 2 super middleweight. The potential fight intrigues Marshall, as it pits two powerful punchers against each other. Additionally, there is the possibility of a rematch with Shields in boxing, as well as the potential for a clash in the MMA arena. Marshall believes that her decision to join the PFL increases the likelihood of a rematch with Shields, as she doubts it would happen in the boxing ring. The rivalry between the two fighters remains alive, and Marshall sees the opportunity to face Shields in MMA as a significant draw for both fans and herself.
Marshall’s longstanding contentious relationship with Shields has fueled her drive to face her rival in the ring or cage. She openly states that there is no one she wants to punch or kick more than Claressa. Exploring a second sport not only raises her profile but also provides Marshall with a fresh challenge that she would not have encountered before. The opportunity to compete in MMA, which two years ago she never thought possible, is one that she is eager to seize.
Savannah Marshall’s decision to enter the world of MMA marks an exciting new chapter in her combat sports career. With aspirations to compete in both boxing and MMA, Marshall believes that signing with the PFL will help elevate her profile and provide the platform for intriguing matchups, including potentially facing her longtime rival Claressa Shields. While boxing remains her main focus, Marshall is enthusiastic about the challenge of learning a new combat sport and pushing herself to new limits. As she embarks on this journey, Marshall’s determination and ambition will undoubtedly make her a force to be reckoned with in the world of MMA.
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