Savannah Marshall suffered a tough split decision loss to Shadasia Green on 11 July at Madison Square Garden — her second career defeat and one that’s already sparked fierce debate. On paper, it’s a setback. But in the ring, the margins were razor-thin.
Marshall started well, faded late, and while the judges leaned toward Green, you’d be forgiven for thinking it could’ve gone the other way. Let’s break down what happened, why she struggled down the stretch, and whether a rematch is not just likely — but necessary.
Firing Early, Fading Late
Through the first few rounds, Marshall looked sharp. She found rhythm behind her jab and boxed with intent. But as the fight wore on, Shadasia Green adjusted — ramping up the pressure and pushing the pace.
According to the official scorecards (courtesy of BoxRec), two judges had it for Green, while one gave it to Marshall — and that tells the story. It wasn’t domination. It was about championship rounds, and Savannah just didn’t do enough to close strong.
The Big Issue? No Plan B
Green’s game plan worked. She went to the body, closed the distance, and made it uncomfortable. Meanwhile, Marshall — for all her technical class — didn’t adapt.
This isn’t new either. Against Claressa Shields, she also came up short when adjustments were needed. That’s now two big nights under the lights where she’s faded. And it’s something that needs fixing — fast.
Sky Sports and Boxing Scene both hinted at possible injuries in camp, and if true, that may explain the dip. But excuses or not, it’s now on her record.
Was It a Close Fight? Absolutely.
Forget the L on the record — this wasn’t a battering. It was a 10-round split decision where one judge, Martha Tremblay, had it 96-93 to Marshall. That alone keeps the door open for a rematch.
Green got the nod, and no one’s screaming robbery, but let’s not pretend this was wide. It was a tactical chess match, and the fans want more. Run it back in the UK, and you’d probably get a different result.
Should There Be a Rematch?
Yes — and not just because it was close. Marshall’s name still carries weight, and Green now holds the IBF and WBC World Super-Middleweight Titles. A rematch would be high stakes, high drama, and sell big — especially if staged in the UK.
There’s talk it could happen before the end of the year. And with no clear frontrunner emerging at 168lbs outside of these two, it might be the most logical fight for both.
Final Thoughts — Setback, Not the End
This Savannah Marshall loss will sting — but it doesn’t signal the end. She’s still one of the UK’s top names, still marketable, and still has unfinished business. If anything, this defeat might light a fire.
But the next time out, she needs to be better. Sharper. Stronger in the later rounds. And most importantly — ready to change gears when the fight starts slipping away.
Over to You…
Did Marshall do enough to win? Or was Shadasia Green just too strong in the championship rounds?
Drop your thoughts in the comments, hit share if you want to see the rematch, and head over to CMBoxing.co.uk for more blogs, breakdowns, and honest fight chat from ringside to living room.