Undisputed super middleweight champion Savannah Marshall has made headlines as she ventures into the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). In an interview with ESPN, Marshall expressed her excitement about this new opportunity, citing her desire to explore a new path amid the limited growth of female boxing. Let’s delve into Marshall’s motivations, her journey into MMA, and what the future holds for this pioneering fighter.
Marshall reflects on the stagnation she witnessed in female boxing, prompting her to consider a transition to MMA. Noticing the opportunities her friend Molly McCann enjoyed as a UFC fighter, Marshall became intrigued by the possibilities that MMA could offer. While she had some previous experience with Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA, this move marks an entirely new chapter for her.
One Fighter’s Journey: The Path to PFL
Following her fight against Claressa Shields, ESPN’s No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer, the PFL approached Marshall with an offer. After months of negotiations, Marshall and the PFL reached a multifight deal. While she acknowledges that she is still in the early stages of MMA training, Marshall’s eagerness to learn and embrace the challenges ahead are palpable.
Embracing the Learning Curve
Marshall recognizes that she will face a learning curve in MMA, having trained with the same combinations and movements in boxing for two decades. However, she welcomes the chance to start fresh and learn a second combat sport from the ground up. Her early sessions with McCann and other fighters have already introduced her to new experiences, such as being choked out. This new world of MMA excites her, injecting a renewed sense of intrigue and challenge into her career.
Boxing First, MMA Second: Balancing Two Disciplines
While MMA presents a thrilling new opportunity, Marshall makes it clear that boxing remains her primary focus. Her MMA career will be built around her boxing commitments, ensuring that she stays true to her roots. However, both sports are momentarily on hold as Marshall recuperates from a hand injury sustained during her victorious fight against Franchon Crews-Dezurn. The surgery to repair the injury will temporarily sideline her from training for both boxing and MMA, allowing her time to heal and prepare for future challenges.
As the undisputed super middleweight champion, Marshall faces a mandatory title defense against Shadasia Green, ESPN’s No. 2-ranked fighter in the division. Talks between their respective camps are ongoing, and a potential clash between these two formidable punchers promises tremendous excitement. Marshall recognizes the significance of this fight, as it features two renowned powerhouses going head-to-head in a battle for dominance.
A Rivalry Rekindled: The Possibility of a Rematch
Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Marshall’s move to the PFL is the potential for a rematch with Claressa Shields, both in boxing and MMA. Given their history and their well-known animosity towards each other, this matchup would undoubtedly be a high-stakes showdown. Marshall acknowledges that this rivalry played a role in her decision to join the PFL, as she believes securing a rematch in boxing may prove difficult. A potential clash in the SmartCage would provide a unique opportunity for these two female fighters to settle their differences.
Savannah Marshall’s venture into MMA signifies a significant turning point in her career. Stepping out of the familiar world of boxing, she embraces the unknown, seeking fresh challenges and opportunities to elevate her profile. While acknowledging the learning curve and the need to balance boxing and MMA, Marshall’s determination shines through. With potential fights against Shadasia Green and the possibility of a rematch with Claressa Shields on the horizon, Marshall’s journey promises excitement, rivalries, and the chance to break new ground for female fighters in the world of combat sports.
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