Claressa Shields Reacts to Ryan Garcia’s Win Over Duarte
Three-division world champion Claressa Shields took a moment from her rigorous training regime to watch, reflect on, and ultimately react to the notable clash between reigning lightweight champion Ryan Garcia and his sturdy competitor, Duarte. The Olympian did not hold back on her analyses and candidly expressed her thoughts, among which was calling the shoulder roll technique “goofy.”
“I watched Ryan’s fight with Duarte, and yes, it was impressive, ” Shields began as she weighed in on Garcia’s performance. The American boxer and mixed martial artist visibly appreciated the well-toned skills Garcia displayed in the square circle. “He’s definitely got some fast hands and good moves, but I observed his shoulder roll and found it a bit goofy, not as effective as it should be,” she added.
For Shields, Garcia’s utilization of the shoulder roll was not up to the mark. This defensive manoeuvre, also known as the Philly Shell or Michigan Defense, made famous by boxing great Floyd Mayweather Jr., seems to have failed to impress the multi-world champion Shields, at least in Garcia’s implementation.
“It evidently works for him in some way, but I felt it was more for show than for sloid defense. In my opinion, there are better ways to handle jabs and right hands.” Shields didn’t mince words in highlighting the differences between presenting a technique and it genuinely being successful in a boxing bout.
Even after her critical comment on Garcia’s shoulder roll, Shields was equally vocal her admiration for the 22-year-old champ. “I must admit that apart from his shoulder roll, the rest of his game was sharp. His jabs, hooks, and uppercuts, his footwork, and his timing were all on point.”
Apart from lauding the young prospect, Shields also shared wisdom about how she believed Garcia could further improve. “I think if he worked on tightening his defense and made that shoulder roll more effective, he could become an even more formidable opponent.” The undisputed middleweight world champion certainly knows a thing or two about refining skills and transforming them into weapons of success in the ring.
This isn’t the first time “T-Rex,” as Shields is affectionately known, has offered constructive feedback on fellow fighters. A significantly open and honest figure in the boxing community, her analyses have always received a broad acknowledgment, underlining her status as one of the most sophisticated technical minds in the sport.
Shields’ commentary on Garcia’s signature move, although borderline controversial, could be a game-changer for the young champ. Often, it’s such impassive and insightful feedback from accomplished veterans of the sport that augments the journey of young fighters, directing them towards increased effectiveness and efficiency.
In conclusion, while Shields may have mildly stirred the waters with her “goofy” comment, it reflects her deep insight into boxing fundamentals. Furthermore, it provides evidence of her keen eye for detail, reinforcing her credibility as not only a pugilist but also a respected voice in the boxing fraternity. As for Ryan Garcia, how he chooses to internalize and act upon this constructively critical observation may have a pivotal influence on his promising boxing career.
