Claressa Shields Praises Jake Paul For Helping Women's Boxing

Claressa Shields appears to be softening up on internet sensation Jake Paul.

The 26-year-old boxer praised “The Problem Child” for helping fellow female boxer Amanda Serrano and the scene as a whole.

"I wish [Jake] the best," Shields told TMZ Sports. "What he's doing for Amanda is great. I think that him getting involved in helping the fight with Katie Taylor is great for Amanda and Katie and it's great for women's boxing."

It was a different kind of tone for Shields who had gone back and forth with Paul last year.

But Shields explained that she went off on Paul when the YouTuber poked fun at her when she lost her second mixed martial arts fight against Abigail Montes in October 2021 under the Professional Fighters League.

"The only beef I have with Jake Paul is don't ever disrespect me. He tried to kick me when I was down and also going to a new sport," she shared.

"I lost a split decision. I didn't get submitted, I didn't get knocked out, I didn't get beat up. It was a split and I'm also brand new in MMA and when he made that comment, calling me a loser and stuff, that's what really made me want to fight him."

Shields has moved on from the heartbreaking loss inside the cage and is now preparing for her return to the boxing ring.

The 26-year-old is set to face Slovenian fighter Ema Kozin on February 5 where Shields will defend her WBA, IBF and WBC middleweight titles.

Shields is a heavy favorite to win over the Slovenian and pundits anticipate that she will go up against Savannah Marshall next.

Furthermore, it appears the Michigan native is pretty much aware of what's ahead of her in boxing.

"This is my belt. So Savannah Marshall is not even considered a champion to me. I win, she wins her next fight, me and her scrap together next, that's what the plan is," Shields stated as quoted by Sky Sports.