Claressa Shields Suspended After Testing Positive for Marijuana, Denies Ever Smoking

Claressa Shields has been suspended after testing positive for marijuana, according to multiple reports.

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) confirmed to Mid-Michigan NOW that a Formal Complaint and Order of Summary Suspension was issued against Shields’ professional boxing license on February 12, 2025. However, LARA did not provide additional details on the matter.

The suspension reportedly came from the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission after an oral fluid sample was collected following Shields’ fight against Danielle Perkins on February 2. While marijuana is legal in Michigan, it remains banned in competition under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations.

Shields quickly responded to the news on social media, maintaining her innocence and emphasizing that she has “never smoked weed.” She described the suspension as “temporary” and stated that she would go to trial to resolve the issue.

This isn’t breaking. And it’s not a thinking face, it was marijuana, no PEDs. Also @arielhelwani it’s a temporary suspension til I go to trial for the very petite amount. I’ve never smoked weed. https://t.co/oAN2oredVn

— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) February 20, 2025

On my soul can’t nobody tarnish my image. It’s a temporary suspension til I go to trial for this very small amount of marijuana. I’m not SUSPENDED from Boxing, I’m not stripped of my titles. I’m just waiting. Also I can’t defend a lie! Do your research!

— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) February 21, 2025

Dmitriy Salita, who runs Salita Promotions, also defended Shields’ reputation, praising her commitment to clean competition.

“Claressa Shields has built her career on hard work, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to clean competition. She stands by her record, her historic achievements, and her integrity as a world champion,” Salita said in a statement. “We are 100 percent confident that Claressa Shields will be vindicated when this matter concludes. One thing I can say with confidence: Claressa Shields did not and does not ingest illicit drugs of any kind, including marijuana.”