After weeks of suspension, Claressa Shields finally has a reason to smile. Boxing’s first three-division undisputed champion stands vindicated, as the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission (MUCC) has officially cleared her, absolving her of alleged marijuana consumption charges. On February 2, in front of a home crowd in Flint, Michigan, the self-proclaimed ‘GWOAT’ of women’s boxing defeated a resilient Danielle Perkins via unanimous decision.

However, controversy soon followed when reports suggested that Shields had tested positive for marijuana by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) from an “oral fluid sample” obtained from Shields after the fight. Pending an investigation, the MUCC placed her under suspension, disallowing her to fight in the state. Shields consistently denied the allegations, asserting, “I’ve always competed clean, and I stand by that. I take my integrity seriously inside and outside the ring.” Now exonerated, the champion silences her critics with a triumphant response.

Claressa Shields fires back!

“Officially unsuspended! But y’all a little quiet!” Shields lashed out, adding, “Y’all was real loud about me “supposedly” smoking marijuana and being suspended!” Her tone was defiant and triumphant. Reinforcing her innocence, she teased an Instagram Live session to further address the situation. Shields’ tweet included an official ‘Dissolving Order of Summary Suspension’ from the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission. The ruling affirmed that the commission had revoked her suspension. The document stated (#5): “The department held a compliance conference with the Respondent [Shields] on March 6, 2025.”

It further noted (#6): “Based on the information Respondent ([Shields] provided at the compliance conference, the Department [Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations, Securities, & Commercial Licensing Bureau], on behalf of the MUCC, finds that there is no longer an imminent threat to the integrity of the sport, the public interest, or the welfare and safety of a contestant that requires emergency action.”

The champion navigating days of controversy

A few weeks ago, taking to Instagram, Shields emphasized that she has always been open with her audience and never shied away from speaking her mind. She made it clear that she would address this situation head-on and correct any misconceptions. As the controversy unfolded, seeking clarification on the matter, the WBO issued a show-cause notice to Shields. Meanwhile, the Michigan Commission proceeded with its independent investigation.

With her name cleared, Shields can now focus on her next move inside the ring. After her victory over Danielle Perkins, the two-time Olympic gold medalist wasted no time in calling out potential opponents. “I love to bring Savannah Marshall to the USA and tap that a** again, um, really, and it’s always on the table if Cris Cyborg or Laila Ali want to fight,” she said during the post-fight interview.

For fans, this incident may bring back memories of Sha’ Carri Richardson. After testing positive for marijuana, the track-and-field star was banned from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Richardson faced a one-month suspension, preventing her from competing on the world stage.

With Shields returning to the ring, the women’s boxing scene is bound to heat up again.

Who do you want Claressa Shields to fight next?