Che Kenneally Eyes Claressa Shields as Career-Defining Target

Spotting Flaws in the G.W.O.A.T.

Kenneally came away from that meeting brimming with confidence.

“You know how they say never meet your idols? It was one of those moments. I looked at her and thought, ‘She’s just human.’ I pointed out so many things I can beat her on. She’s got flaws, and I can’t wait to capitalize on them.”

At 6 feet tall, the Gold Coast native believes her physicality and athletic background give her tools Shields’ recent opponents have lacked. A lifelong multi-sport athlete, Kenneally has competed internationally in shotput, discus, hammer throw, rugby, and track and field events.

“My whole life has been sports,” she said. “People say I haven’t had many fights, but all of those sports contribute to why I’m powerful and good at boxing.”

Shields’ Recent Run

For Shields (14–0, 2 KOs), the idea of another challenger may not feel urgent. Since her 2022 win over Savannah Marshall, she’s collected wins with relative ease against Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, Danielle Perkins, and Daniels. Critics argue she hasn’t been tested since Marshall, and some even suggest she’s become bored dominating opponents moving up from lighter weight classes.

Kenneally believes that’s exactly where she comes in.

“The girls fighting her are out of their divisions. I’m in my division. I’m an athlete. She doesn’t belong at light heavyweight, and I’m going to show that.”

The Reality Check

Despite her bold words, Kenneally understands she’s still at the beginning of her pro career. With only five fights and more than a year since her last bout, she needs activity before a Shields showdown is realistic.

“I want the biggest fights, but I know I have to work my way up there. The problem is, no one wants to fight me. So I’ll just keep going for her and take out whoever’s in my way.”

What’s Next

For now, Kenneally’s priority is simply to get back in the ring. But the dream of facing Claressa Shields is clear, and with both fighters sharing ties to Salita Promotions, the matchup may not be far-fetched. For Shields, Kenneally offers size, athleticism, and a hunger that could spark interest in a division that lacks true threats. For Kenneally, it’s the chance to test herself against a legend and maybe pull off one of the sport’s biggest shocks.

“We train for Claressa Shields,” Kenneally said. “Anyone underneath that is just a steppingstone.”