Boxing legend Claressa Shields had high praise for Chrisean Rock after Rock secured a win in her professional boxing debut, then followed it up with veteran advice about protecting her peace as success grows.
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Rock defeated Zenith Zion by split decision on April 25 at XRumble Fighting Championships at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack in Chester, Pennsylvania. The three-round bout marked the boxing debut for both women and streamed on TrillerTV pay-per-view.
Speaking during a livestream, Shields said Rock’s moment was bigger than boxing because of everything she has overcome in public view.
“Yesterday was a feel-good story for me because, you know, I got to see Chrisean Rock have her pro debut,” Shields said. “It was like, Chrisean been through so much and we got to see it up close and personal.”
She continued, “To see her go through everything that she went through with, you know uh her ex guy, the baby, Baddies, family. To see her actually come out the other side, you know, and win and put her fighting skills to use to actually have like some dedication to see start this journey.”
Shields also revealed she offered hands-on support if Rock wants to sharpen her skills in the ring.
“And I was telling her like, you know, hey, if she wanted to get trained by me or she wanted to come with me, she could or wherever she go, whenever she want to come and train, I’m open to it and I’ll teach her what I know and, you know, give her some tips.”
Still, the undisputed champion made it clear that fame can attract the wrong energy.
“With with success comes a lot of vultures. And people want to place themselves around you,” Shields said, before reminding Rock to remember who disappeared when times were hard. “Money do change people.”
