Two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields has been suspended by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission following a positive marijuana test.
Shields, who historically became the only boxer to hold undisputed status in three weight classes, has been placed under investigation for the positive test which followed her victory over heavyweight Danielle Perkins in Michigan on February 3.
“Ms. Shields’ conduct as a licensed professional boxer constitutes an immediate threat to the integrity of professional boxing, the public interest and the welfare and safety of professional athletes,” the Michigan Commission said on Thursday.
JUST IN: “He’s A Boxer Now”: Gervonta Davis Agrees To Jake Paul Fight Under One Condition
Marijuana is banned in-competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The World Boxing Organization (WBO), meanwhile, does not have the power to suspend boxers, but has requested a “show notice” from Shields, asking the 29-year-old to explain the positive test.
Shields took to social media to respond to the news, saying on X: “On my soul can’t nobody tarnish my image. It’s a temporary suspension til I go to trial for this very small amount of marijuana.
“I’m not SUSPENDED from boxing, I’m not stripped of my titles. I’m just waiting. Also I can’t defend a lie! Do your research!”
Shields and Perkins would have been subject to drug tests conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) for their February bout, and the positive returned test was from an “oral fluid sample”.
The Michigan Commission’s investigation has opened an investigation to consider whether Shields should face disciplinary action.
The American, who became an Olympic champion at the age of just 17, is widely considered the biggest star of women’s boxing, after bursting onto the scene with her stunning middleweight gold at London 2012.
She went on to claim every major world title in three different weight classes, and is currently undefeated in 16 fights.
