PFL 4: Claressa Shields vs Brittney Elkin- Prediction and Analysis

Transitioning from MMA to boxing is not a straightforward proposition. However, transitioning from boxing to MMA is no mean feat either. The former requires fighters to adapt to new stances and focus on one aspect of their game. However, the latter means having to learn new disciplines such as wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, and kickboxing. Multiple-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields aims to do just that as she prepares for her MMA debut. 

The self-proclaimed ‘GWOAT’ shocked the combat sports world when she announced she would be stepping into the cage with no prior experience in MMA. Ahead of her MMA debut, we inspect both (Shields and Elkin) fighters and see who can walk away with the win.

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Can Claressa Shields secure a win in her MMA debut?

Claressa Shields, who is the only two-division simultaneous undisputed boxing world champion, is widely regarded as one of the best female pugilists in the world right now. Therefore, her striking pedigree is not in question.

However, she would know that she cannot rest on her laurels as she gears up to compete in her first professional fight at PFL 4. 

Brittney Elkin has been a professional fighter since 2014. She has a record of 3-6 and is currently on a three-fight skid as a professional mixed martial artist. Securing a win over ‘T-Rex’ will be the biggest win of her career. 

Elkin is not known for her wrestling and grappling skills. She is primarily a striker and has never won a fight via submission. Therefore, she will most likely want to keep the fight standing. Considering Shields’ skill-set, this might spell trouble for her.

Shields has no prior experience in wrestling or grappling. Therefore, it is a no-brainer that she would like to keep the fight on a vertical base. She trains with the likes of Mike Winkeljohn and Greg Jackson at JacksonWink MMA.

The duo, considered two of the best minds in MMA, has been responsible for the growth of the UFC champions like Jon Jones, and former boxing champion Holly Holm. The latter is someone ‘T-Rex’ will be aiming to emulate. 

If Claressa Shields can keep the fight standing, she should be able to secure her first win as a professional mixed martial artist. 

Prediction:- Claressa Shields via TKO.