Dsalita Claressa Shields, the female multi-division world champion, recently critiqued Adrien Broner’s performance against Blair Cobbs, noting the same flaws she had seen in his game since his loss to Manny Pacquiao in 2019. Shields highlighted Broner’s lack of activity and failure to throw enough punches in the fight, which ultimately led to his defeat by Cobbs.
Despite Broner’s impressive career as a former four-division world champion, Shields expressed concern over his stagnant improvement and questioned whether age or the toll of his long career were responsible for his decline. She pointed out that Broner’s tendency to underperform and let his opponents outwork him had been evident in several past fights, illustrating a worrying pattern in his recent performances.
Moreover, Shields criticized Broner’s pre-fight behavior, particularly his controversial remarks about violence and crime at the press conference. She emphasized the importance of separating such distractions from his boxing career, urging Broner to focus on his professional development rather than engaging in sensationalism.
Looking ahead, Shields pondered Broner’s future in the sport, suggesting that retirement might be a viable option if he is unable to compete against top-tier opponents. While acknowledging Broner’s financial motivations for continuing to fight, she emphasized the significance of his safety and well-being, encouraging him to make informed decisions about his career trajectory.
In conclusion, Shields commended Cobbs for his victory and extended well wishes to Broner, highlighting the complexity of his career choices moving forward. She emphasized the need for Broner to assess his abilities realistically and make decisions that prioritize his long-term success and health in the sport.
