Claressa Shields Subtly Responds Following Loss to Angel Reese at BET Awards

Shields congratulates Angel Reese but questions why she didn’t win the top slot despite having a stellar resume.

After missing out on the Sportswoman of the Year title at the BET Awards, boxing champion Claressa Shields resorted to social media to address her concerns.

“I still don’t understand how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the BET Awards, but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other nominees,” Shields wrote in a tweet that went viral right away. I simply believed that recognition was important. Although she didn’t sound resentful, it was obvious that she thought her long list of achievements would be given greater weight.

Shields stepped up when a user attempted to defend Angel Reese by pointing out that she has accomplishments as well. She does, to be sure, but who in their area has greater achievements and accolades? Before answering, please consult Google,” she said. 

She went on to explain that she wasn’t disparaging Reese, but rather that her record is difficult to overlook in terms of awards, titles, and historic victories. “Isn’t anyone claiming that Angel Reese isn’t talented or hasn’t received any recognition? I’m stating that I believed the award would go to the individual who had “THE MOST” honors and achievements. I support Angel Reese!

Shields has won two gold medals at the Olympics and is the first boxer, male or female, to win all four major world titles in two weight divisions at the same time. Despite her unquestionable record, the BET Awards seemed to follow the trend, and at the moment, Angel Reese is the cultural it-girl in sports.

Shields reminded everyone that her name belongs in any serious discussion about athletic excellence, regardless of whether you agree with the conclusion. She also hopes that people would complete their homework the next time.