American boxing sensation Claressa Shields finds herself in the public eye not just for her prowess in the ring, but also for her evolving romantic life. As of 2025, the two-time Olympic gold medalist remains unmarried, but she is openly in a serious relationship with renowned rapper Papoose.
From the Boxing Ring to the Spotlight of Love
Claressa Shields and Papoose, whose real name is Shamele Mackie, began their relationship in late 2024. Their connection became a topic of public discussion following an announcement by Papoose's estranged wife, fellow rapper Remy Ma, regarding their separation. The situation escalated when Remy Ma leaked private text messages between Papoose and Shields on social media in December 2024, accusing them of an affair.
In the aftermath, both Shields and Papoose confirmed they were indeed a couple. Papoose countered Remy Ma's claims by stating they had been separated for some time and accused her of infidelity. He officially filed for divorce in May 2025, though the legal process is still pending, meaning he is technically still married.
A Deep Bond and Future Plans
Shields has spoken candidly about the strength of her relationship with Papoose. In an interview with The Breakfast Club, she described their bond as secure and built on honesty. "When somebody is just truthful with you from the beginning, there is no secrets," she stated, explaining that Papoose was upfront about his situation from the start.
The couple's plans extend far into the future. In a July 2025 appearance on The Pivot Podcast, Shields revealed they intend to start a family. "I’m gonna have a baby next year. We already had it planned out," she announced, specifying the year 2026. She expressed her desire to have children while still young and active enough to enjoy parenthood fully, indicating a potential temporary hiatus from her fighting career to focus on family.
Claressa Shields' Past Engagement to Tony Richardson
Before Papoose, Claressa Shields was engaged to fitness trainer Tony Richardson. Their relationship lasted over three years, from July 2020 until late 2024. The pair met at Richardson's gym, At Fitness Gym, where he provided her with workout regimens and they occasionally trained together.
Despite their engagement, the relationship ultimately did not lead to marriage. The engagement was called off around late 2024 or early 2025. Following the split, reports indicated that Shields repossessed a truck she had previously given to Richardson.
Addressing Engagement Rumours with Papoose
Despite their serious commitment and baby plans, Shields and Papoose are not engaged as of late 2025. Rumours swirled on social media after a video showed Shields wearing a ring, but she was quick to clarify. In a comment on The Shade Room, she set the record straight: "My last relationship I was engaged! Papoose hasn’t proposed YET!" This statement confirms their relationship status while leaving the door open for future developments.
Claressa Shields, born on March 17, 1995, in Flint, Michigan, continues to dominate women's boxing and MMA. At 30 years old in 2025, she balances a demanding athletic career with a highly scrutinised personal life, navigating love and future plans under the watchful eye of fans and media alike.
