Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse: The Rising Contender Facing Claressa Shields

From a six-year hiatus to WBC heavyweight champion
Lepage-Joanisse is set to defend her WBC heavyweight title against the legendary Claressa Shields
Lepage-Joanisse is set to defend her WBC heavyweight title against the legendary Claressa Shields /

By Mohamed Bahaa

Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, the reigning WBC heavyweight world champion, is gearing up for a high-stakes showdown against Claressa Shields this weekend in Detroit. Lepage-Joanisse, who made a remarkable comeback to the sport in March 2023 after nearly six years away, has quickly reestablished herself as a force to be reckoned with in women's boxing. Her journey back to the top has been nothing short of inspiring, culminating in her winning the WBC heavyweight title.

Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse's Professional Record

Lepage-Joanisse boasts an impressive professional record, standing at 7-1, with two of those victories coming by way of knockout. This strong performance record underscores her resilience and skill in the ring, making her a formidable opponent for anyone she faces.

Championship Accolades

Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse has achieved the pinnacle of her career so far by capturing the WBC heavyweight title. This accomplishment marks her as one of the elite fighters in the heavyweight division.

Major Victories

Lepage-Joanisse's path to the championship was paved with significant victories. After her long hiatus, she returned to the ring in March 2023, securing three consecutive wins within six months. This impressive streak earned her a title shot against the then-WBC heavyweight world champion, Abril Argentina Vidal, in March. The bout, held at the Montreal Casino in Montreal, Canada, was a hard-fought contest that ended with Lepage-Joanisse emerging victorious via split decision, thus crowning her the new WBC heavyweight champion.

As Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse prepares for her first title defense against the legendary Claressa Shields, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling match. Shields, often hailed as the greatest women's boxer of all time, presents a significant challenge for Lepage-Joanisse. However, with her record of triumphs and determination, Lepage-Joanisse is poised to defend her title with all her might.

The upcoming bout not only signifies a critical moment in Lepage-Joanisse's career but also represents a pivotal event in the landscape of women's boxing. A victory over Shields would not only cement Lepage-Joanisse's status as a top-tier heavyweight champion but also inspire a new generation of female fighters.

Her story of resilience and comeback serves as a powerful testament to the spirit of perseverance and dedication. Regardless of the outcome, this fight is set to elevate the profile of women's boxing and highlight the exceptional talent within the sport. As the world watches, Lepage-Joanisse has the opportunity to redefine her legacy and potentially usher in a new era for female athletes in boxing.


Published
Judy Rotich

JUDY ROTICH