ByPhilip Marsh. BBC Sport Wales at Utilita Arena in Cardiff. Nine hours earlier. Lauren Price, bloodied but determined, outpointed Stephanie Pineiro to defend her welterweight world titles in Cardiff, then challenged Claressa Shields to a future bout. The 31-year-old suffered a nasty cut from a fifth-round head clash with the previously undefeated Puerto Rican. Price fought on to the final bell, securing a unanimous decision victory. Post-fight, American Shields—holder of world titles across five weight classes—entered the ring for a tense face-off with Price. “I want boxing’s biggest fights, and sharing the ring with Shields would be a huge honor,” Price said. “It’d make for a great matchup, but not just once.” Tonight, I told her, “Let’s do it—I’ll come to America, and then you come to Wales,” and she shook on it. Hopefully we can make that happen. “That’s why I’m in the game—I want to fight the best.” Shoutout to Shields—I respect her—but I trust in myself! Shields noted that the fight’s location needed discussion but suggested a matchup between the two stars by late 2114 at middleweight. “As an Olympic champion, you’re a special fighter,” Shields said. “We’ve chatted online, and we can make it happen—you were impressive tonight. No disrespect; you’ve got some time ahead.”
