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Savannah Marshall stands as one of Britain’s most accomplished and compelling athletes. Known as the “Silent Assassin,” she has carved out a remarkable career in both boxing and mixed martial arts. In 2025, Marshall’s name was once again at the centre of UK sports headlines, following her return to the boxing ring and a dramatic title fight in New York. Her journey, marked by resilience and reinvention, continues to inspire fans across the country.
Early Life and Boxing Beginnings
Born in Hartlepool, County Durham, in 1991, Savannah Marshall’s introduction to boxing came at the age of 12. She joined the local Headland boxing club, where she was the only girl in the gym. Despite initial resistance, her determination and love for the sport quickly became clear. Marshall’s early experiences shaped her gritty approach in the ring and her commitment to breaking barriers for women in boxing.
Her amateur career was nothing short of historic. In 2012, Marshall became the first British female world champion by winning gold at the AIBA Women’s World Championships in China. She went on to represent Team GB at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, further cementing her reputation as one of the country’s most promising talents.
Professional Rise and World Titles
Marshall turned professional in 2017, signing with Floyd Mayweather Jr. and debuting on the undercard of the Mayweather-McGregor fight in Las Vegas. Her professional record quickly blossomed, with a string of knockout victories showcasing her power and technical skill. In 2020, she claimed the WBO middleweight title with a dominant win over Hannah Rankin at Wembley Arena, marking a major milestone in her career.
Her ascent continued as she unified the super-middleweight division in 2023, defeating Franchón Crews-Dezurn to become the undisputed champion at 168 pounds. This victory at Manchester Arena was a defining moment, establishing Marshall as one of the elite fighters in women’s boxing.
Rivalry with Claressa Shields
No discussion of Savannah Marshall’s career is complete without mentioning her rivalry with American star Claressa Shields. Marshall remains the only boxer to have defeated Shields, a feat she achieved in the amateurs. Their professional rematch in London in 2022 was historic, headlining the first all-female boxing card in the UK. Although Marshall lost by unanimous decision, the bout drew widespread acclaim and elevated the profile of women’s boxing in Britain.
A Foray into Mixed Martial Arts
After her defeat to Shields, Marshall took a bold step by entering the world of mixed martial arts. She made her MMA debut in June 2024, securing a first-round stoppage at PFL Europe in Newcastle. Marshall’s transition to MMA was motivated in part by her desire to chase a rematch with Shields, who was also competing in the Professional Fighters League. Although the anticipated rematch did not materialise, Marshall credits her time in MMA with making her physically stronger and more versatile as a fighter.
The Return to Boxing and Title Unification
In May 2025, Marshall announced her return to boxing, signing with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. Her comeback was set for a high-stakes unification bout against Shadasia Green at Madison Square Garden, New York. The fight, held on the undercard of the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy, was one of the most anticipated events in women’s boxing.
Marshall entered the ring as the IBF super-middleweight champion, facing Green, the WBO titleholder. Despite a two-year absence from boxing, Marshall delivered a gritty performance. The contest was fiercely competitive, with both fighters trading heavy shots over ten rounds. Ultimately, Green edged the split decision, with two judges favouring the American and one siding with Marshall. The result sparked controversy, with Marshall expressing disappointment at the judges’ scoring and insisting she “just wanted a fair fight”.
Reaction and the Road Ahead
Marshall’s defeat to Green was a setback, but it did little to diminish her standing in the sport. Many observers noted the narrow margin of the decision and praised Marshall’s resilience after a lengthy layoff. Her willingness to take on the toughest challenges, even after setbacks, has earned her widespread respect among fans and pundits alike.
In post-fight interviews, Marshall reflected on her journey and the challenges of returning to elite competition after time away. She remains motivated by the prospect of reclaiming her titles and, perhaps, finally securing a second professional bout with Claressa Shields—a rivalry that continues to captivate the boxing world.
Legacy and Impact
Savannah Marshall’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and trailblazing achievement. From her early days as a lone girl in a Hartlepool gym to her reign as an undisputed world champion, she has consistently pushed boundaries. Her success has helped pave the way for the next generation of female fighters in the UK, and her candidness about the challenges she has faced has made her a relatable figure for many.
Marshall’s journey also highlights the growing strength and visibility of women’s boxing. Her headline bouts have drawn large audiences and media attention, contributing to a broader shift in attitudes towards female athletes in combat sports. As she continues her career, whether in boxing or MMA, Marshall’s influence on British sport is assured.
Expert Insights
Boxing analysts point to Marshall’s technical prowess, punching power, and mental toughness as key factors in her success. Her ability to adapt between boxing and MMA demonstrates her versatility and commitment to continuous improvement. Industry experts believe that, despite her recent defeat, Marshall remains a major force in the super-middleweight division and a potential champion in the making once again.
Conclusion
Savannah Marshall’s journey is far from over. Her return to boxing in 2025, following a successful stint in MMA, underscores her determination and passion for competition. While her recent loss to Shadasia Green was a disappointment, it is clear that Marshall’s legacy is defined not by a single result, but by her enduring impact on British sport.
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