PFL President praises Claressa Shields' debut but says she still 'has a lot to learn'

C. Shields debuted with victory in the PFL Photo: Instagram

Even excited about the successful debut of Claressa shields In MMA, PFL president Ray Sefo acknowledged that the former boxer is not yet part of the mixed martial arts elite. The president stated that the North American still needs to 'learn many things' and declared that the organization will not be in a rush to develop the Olympic champion of the noble art. The statement was given in an interview with 'MMA fighting'.

See too

Kamaru Usman surprises and challenges Nate Diaz to fight at welterweight

Thompson believes that victory against Durinho could put him in a welterweight title fight

Anderson Silva's boxing victory surprises Sonnen, who praises his former rival

“Is there still a lot to learn? 100%. I was impressed with the way she won. Not only because she was so determined that the fight wouldn't end in the judges' decision but that regardless of whether she won or lost, she would fight,” said Ray.

Aware that Shields still needs to evolve to dream of the lightweight belt, the president stated that he is in no rush with the fighter and stipulated when the multi-time boxing champion will be ready for the top of the category.

“Now, we will have to wait and see what happens in his next fight. We will do our job to continue to give her fights where she can gain more experience and we hope she is ready for the 2022 or 2023 season”, concluded Ray Sefo.

World boxing champion in three different categories and owner of two Olympic gold medals (2012 and 2016), Claressa debuted with victory in professional MMA. The American knocked out Brittney Elkins in the second round of PFL 4 at the beginning of June.