If anyone deserves a movie based on her life, it has to be Claressa Shields. The two-time Olympic gold medalist is one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers of all time. Her hall-of-fame career has inspired countless lives over her career.

So, it was a delight when Amazon MGM announced that they would be bringing the inspiring story to the big screen titled ‘The Fire Inside’. Barry Jenkins-written venture premiered in front of a sold-out crowd at the Toronto International Film Festival. It received a warm reception from the fans. The two-time Olympic gold medalist herself stole the show with an appearance at the premiere.

Claressa Shields first red-carpet appearance

The 15-0 boxer made the premiere even more special with her presence as she found the event “surreal” by her admission. It was her first red carpet appearance, and she was not disappointed as she received a warm welcome from the fans who were in awe of the boxing star.

Every fan present wanted a selfie with the national hero and she obliged with much grace and patience. Fans on social media loved the gesture by the unified middleweight champion as one fan wrote, “She’s such a class act. I am hoping the movie will be a success,” wishing the champion best for her movie.

The hype for the movie is unreal, and fans are excited about it. One fan wrote, “This is huge!!!” expressing his excitement about the movie while another fan stated that he will support the American hero as he wrote down, “Definitely supporting my boo @Claressashields 💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿 Much success champ,” declaring his undying support for the champion.

While it is huge news that Shields is getting her movie, we have seen so many controversies in the past over biopics. There have been cases where the athlete or other celebrities do not get paid for their rights. One user showcased his concern, stating, “Hopefully she will be compensated for the rights and likeness. It is a story of her life,” as he demanded fair treatment for the athlete.

When you are at the top, you are bound to have some critics and one such critic made sure to make his presence known. “T-Rex” received a standing ovation at the movie premiere as the fan wrote, “The 6 people there look really happy” even though it was a sold-out crowd at the festival.

Overall, it was a positive premiere for ‘The Fire Inside’ as the reviews and early reactions have increased the hype for its theatrical release.

Early Oscar buzz for ‘The Fire Inside’

‘The Fire Inside’ is all set to release on December 15th, 2024, and is getting that Oscar buzz. According to several reviews, Henry killed it as Shields’ coach and Ryan Destiny shines as the boxer herself.

The director-writer duo of Barry Jenkins and Rachel Morrison is a capable one. Both of them have been nominated for the Academy Awards previously and were expected to create magic with this one. The movie is scheduled for a few more premieres before its theatrical release and might slide its way into the People’s Choice award depending on the reception.

It would have been a hell of a task to put such an inspirational life on the screen. But if anyone can do it, it has to be Jenkins and fans are showing their trust in the writer-producer. What do you think about the upcoming biopic of Claressa Shields? Will it be an emotional rollercoaster like it is supposed to be? Let us know your thoughts down below.