Claressa Shields vs. Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse: How much are the boxers making? Estimated purses reported from previous fights
Claressa Shields is gearing up to face off against Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse this weekend at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. Lepage-Joanisse is poised to defend her WBC heavyweight title in the 12-round showdown, with the vacant WBO light heavyweight belt being up for grabs as well.
Shields is a two-time Olympic gold medalist renowned for her rapid ascent in professional boxing. She holds the record for becoming the fastest to secure undisputed championships in two weight divisions, as well as world titles in a third. Her professional career took off when she captured a pair of super middleweight titles in just her fourth fight.
'T-Rex' is set to make her return over a year after her dominant unanimous decision victory against Maricela Cornejo in June 2023, where she defended her undisputed status.
In this upcoming bout, she will be moving up two weight classes to challenge Lepage-Joanisse at 175 pounds. The 29-year-old Michigan native boasts an undefeated professional record of 14-0, with two of those victories coming by knockout.
Meanwhile, Lepage-Joanisse made a remarkable return to the ring in March 2023 after nearly six years of absence. She has swiftly reestablished herself as a formidable presence in women's boxing. The 29-year-old Canadian's journey back to the top included a three-fight win streak.
Lepage-Joanisse then went on to capture the WBC heavyweight title with a split-decision victory over Abril Argentina Vidal this past March. She currently holds a professional record of 7-1, with two of those victories achieved by knockout.
As the clash between Shields and Lepage-Joanisse draws near, boxing fans are eager to know the fight purses for both athletes. While the exact figures remain uncertain, estimates can be made based on their previous earnings.
According to a report by NY Fights, 'T-Rex', as the more renowned fighter and a major crowd-puller, is expected to earn the "lioness's share of the purse." Shields, who earned around $500,000 for her fight against Cornejo, is projected to make approximately $650,000 to $700,000 from the guaranteed purse this Saturday night.
In contrast, there is little data regarding Lepage-Joanisse's earnings. However, she is expected to secure at least $400,000 for her first title defense. It's important to note that this estimated amount does not include any potential earnings from pay-per-view points, sponsorships and other perks that fighters typically receive.
Claressa Shields vs. Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse: Fight timings and key insights
The broadcast for the Claressa Shields vs. Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse fight card is scheduled to start at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT on Saturday, July 27, in the United States. Fans in the United Kingdom can tune in to catch all the action at 1 AM GMT on Sunday, July 28.
Meanwhile, the main event ring walks are anticipated to begin around 12 AM ET / 9 PM PT in the United States, which translates to 4 AM GMT in the United Kingdom. However, these times are subject to change depending on the duration of the undercard fights.