Claressa Shields Shows Love for Papoose After Undisputed Title Defense as Baby Plans for 2026 Unfold

Time of India

29-07-2025

Images via Imagn and Claressa Shields' Instagram: Claressa Shields and Papoose
Claressa Shields has always been a powerhouse in the ring. But now, fans are seeing a more personal side of the boxing champ. At the official weigh-in on July 25, 2025, ahead of her undisputed heavyweight title defense against Lani Daniels, Shields surprised everyone by revealing a new tattoo just below her chest that read 'Papoose'—a heartfelt tribute to her partner.
The intimate moment quickly went viral, and now, the GWOAT has made her relationship with the American hip-hop artist even more official with a recent social media post.
Claressa Shields Credits Papoose
for Her Title Defense Against Lani Daniels
For those unfamiliar, Shields improved her record to 17-0 after defending her undisputed titles against Lani Daniels at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. It was a dominant 10-round performance, with judges scoring it 100-90, 99-91, and 99-91 in her favor.
After the win, the GWOAT took to Instagram to thank her partner Papoose for his love and support throughout her journey.
'And 😊 To my man @papoose ….. Thank you. You are the epitome of a REAL MAN! How you have added to my life and my happiness, I can't speak about how great you are enough. I've been in the driver seat of my life since 'FOREVER' now you came and took the wheel and let me ride shotgun 🤩🥹 Thank you for being who you are…'
She continued, 'Despite all the 'wrong' names that people add to you, you are truly just a Smart, GREAT MAN, Genuine, Loving, Honest & Kind Person.
This weekend would [not have] been possible without you! I say that humbly! You helped me make 'one more' of my dreams come true! If it's Us vs Them, we [are going to] always win.'
Shields and Papoose have reportedly been together since 2024. Their relationship became public following Papoose's messy separation from his wife, rapper Remy Ma, to whom he is still legally married. Naturally, the reveal sparked plenty of reactions on social media.
Claressa Shields Reveals Plans to Start a Family in 2026
Furthermore, Shields has already confirmed that she and Papoose are planning to have a baby in 2026. During her recent appearance on The Pivot Podcast, the undefeated boxing champion opened up about her plans, saying she's ready to embrace motherhood.
'I'm gonna have a baby next year. We already have it planned out.'
However, Shields made it clear that starting a family doesn't mean she's stepping away from the ring.
'After I go through my stuff, then I'll come back and fight some more, and then probably have another one and do the same thing again.'
The 30-year-old even explained why she's not waiting until retirement to have children.
'I don't want to wait till I'm, you know, 40, 43, whatever, after my career, to have my kids,' she said. 'I want to be able to run at the park with my kids… I don't want to be too old.'
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