Claressa Shields expects Lauren Price blockbuster to be delayed until 2027

Pound-for-pound star Claressa Shields expects her long-awaited showdown with Wales’ Lauren Price to be pushed back until 2027, despite both fighters previously expressing interest in meeting in the ring.

Price challenged for a clash with Shields after defeating Stephanie Pineiro in April to retain her welterweight world titles.

The two fighters came face-to-face following the contest which added further anticipation to a potential blockbuster bout.

Shields is preparing to move down to middleweight, where she will challenge Australia’s WBA and WBC champion Kaye Scott in Atlanta on 15th August.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding a potential meeting with Price, the American remains keen to face the Welsh fighter and believes the bout would provide a major test.

"When I look at Lauren fight, she's very explosive. She's fast. She got a lot of skill. I can't wait to get in there and showcase my skills against her," Shields said.

"I think I will have this fight and I would love to fight again at the end of the year at 160lb (middleweight).

"I thought it was going to Lauren, but I don't know when Lauren is getting back in the ring. But I think me and her will fight in 2027 in the first quarter."

Price previously mentioned in April that there was no reason to delay a meeting between the two fighters while they remain in their prime.

It is pertinent to mention that Price has not fought since her victory over Pineiro, with the lack of activity causing momentum behind a potential Shields showdown to cool in recent months.