Two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields explains move to MMA: 'Boxing is so sexist'

Two-time Olympic boxing gold medalist and three-division champion Claressa Shields is fed up with how professional boxing was built that she had to transition to mixed martial arts.

In an interview with TMZ Sports, the 25-year-old American disclosed why she believes that there is inequality in pro boxing by comparing her fight purses with her fellow Olympic gold medalist and MMA fighter Kayla Harrison.

“Kayla [Harrison], I watch all her fights. She had a chance to fight for a million dollars [in MMA] before I had a chance to fight for a million dollars in boxing and I've accomplished everything there is to accomplish in boxing,” said Shields.

“Boxing is so sexist. These men are fighting for multiple millions that haven't accomplished half of what I accomplished but I'm supposed to just be happy? Like yeah, go ahead and pay me $300k and then offer me $150k for the next fight.”

It was announced a few days ago that Shields has signed with MMA outfit Professional Fighters League and is slated to make her debut next year. And while she would have a handful at mixed martial arts, Shields is still allowed to compete in professional boxing as stated on her contract.

She also realizes that MMA is a whole different sport hence she is making all the necessary adjustments in training for a successful transition. When the time comes to enter the cage, Shields vowed that she will be ready.

“Just trying to get stronger and fast to be more explosive and really just treat my body like a temple so we can get ready to go through all these different changes we're about to go through having to be an MMA fighter.” -- BAP, GMA News