Nelson: Savannah Marshall Could Become No. 1 Female Fighter

Former cruiserweight champion Johnny Nelson could see Savannah Marshall taking over as the top female fighter in the world – if she beats Claressa Shields in their grudge match that is being put together for later this year.

Marshall beat Shields in the amateurs. Since then, Shields has captured two Olympic gold medals and became the undisputed champion in two weight divisions.

Marshall captured the WBO middleweight title last year, with Shields holding the IBF, WBC, WBA belts.

“I believe Savannah Marshall could become the new women’s No 1. Savannah can be quiet, she’s not brash, but she can fight and technically she’s very good. If there’s anybody who could realistically beat Shields, it’s Savannah,” Nelson said.

“We’ve seen Savannah grow in stature before our eyes. She could become a leading champion for women’s boxing, because she’s getting better every fight while working with trainer Peter Fury. Savannah, if she gets past Claressa Shields, will be a new female superstar.

“I’m a massive fan of Katie Taylor. She’s been a brilliant ambassador and an outstanding fighter. But Katie might reach the stage where she thinks, ‘I’ve done everything I can do and I’m out of here’.”

At the moment, undisputed junior welterweight champion Katie Taylor is viewed as the top female fighter in the UK – but the veteran trainer agrees that Marshall is capable of taking that spot.

“Katie Taylor is a legend of the sport, but she could be nearing the final chapter of her career, whereas Savannah Marshall is only just realizing how good she is. I think she’s outstanding,” Nelson said.

“With the right fights, and the backing that she’s going to get, I think Savannah is going to end up being the No 1 female fighter in boxing – 2022 is going to be a really big year for her.”

Taylor could have a big year as well, if she wins a planned showdown with the very dangerous Amanda Serrano.