Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Savannah Marshall Signs with Professional Fighters League for MMA Debut

Undisputed super middleweight champion Savannah Marshall signs with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) for her MMA debut. Learn about her motivations, plans, and potential rematches in this captivating article.

Undisputed super middleweight champion Savannah Marshall, ranked No. 10 pound-for-pound by ESPN, has announced her decision to enter the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Marshall, who has dominated the boxing scene with a record of 13-1 and 10 knockouts, is signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in hopes of making her mark in both boxing and MMA.

Marshall expressed her motivation for transitioning to MMA, stating that she had contemplated the move for years. She noticed the opportunities her friend Molly McCann, a UFC fighter, was receiving and how the UFC treated male and female fighters equally. Marshall’s interest in MMA grew as she witnessed the sport’s growth and the potential it held for her career.

While Marshall has limited experience in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA, she believes that the PFL, one of the world’s largest MMA organizations, can elevate her profile to new heights. The PFL initially approached Marshall after her fight against Claressa Shields, ESPN’s top-ranked pound-for-pound boxer. With Shields and Amanda Serrano also signed to the PFL, Marshall saw an opportunity to compete against top talent in both boxing and MMA.

Marshall acknowledges that there will be a learning curve as she transitions to MMA. Having trained in boxing for two decades, she is accustomed to specific combinations and movements. However, she is excited about the challenge and the intrigue of starting fresh in a new combat sport. Marshall has already begun training with McCann and other fighters, experiencing the intensity of MMA firsthand. Despite being choked out during a training session, Marshall found the experience exhilarating and is eager to continue her MMA journey.

While Marshall’s focus remains on boxing, she plans to build her MMA career around her success in the ring. However, her immediate plans for both sports are on hold due to a hand injury sustained in her recent victory over Franchon Crews-Dezurn. Marshall underwent surgery to repair the injury and will need another month or two before she can resume training. As a result, Marshall expects to be sidelined for the remainder of 2023, with hopes of returning to the ring or making her MMA debut in early 2024.

Marshall’s next challenge in boxing is a mandatory title defense against Shadasia Green, the No. 2 super middleweight according to ESPN. The potential matchup between Marshall and Green is highly anticipated, as both fighters possess devastating punching power. While discussions are ongoing between their respective camps, no decision has been made regarding the next fight.

In addition to her boxing career, Marshall is intrigued by the possibility of a rematch with Claressa Shields, both in boxing and MMA. Marshall believes that joining the PFL increases the likelihood of a rematch, as she doubts it would happen in the boxing ring. The rivalry between Marshall and Shields dates back to their amateur boxing days, and Marshall is determined to face her long-time adversary once again.

Marshall’s decision to explore MMA is driven by her desire to elevate her profile and face new challenges. She recognizes the opportunity presented to her and is grateful for the chance to pursue a second sport. Marshall’s journey into MMA will undoubtedly captivate fans and provide a fresh perspective on her remarkable career.

Summary