Who’s Next for Mikaela Mayer?
Mikaela Mayer had several fight options before joining the Jake Paul-backed movement in women’s boxing. Now, as a signed member of the MVP team, she has an exciting array of potential major bouts ahead.
The three-division world champion was already in discussions for a match against Claressa Shields, considered one of the biggest draws in women’s boxing. Current information suggests this matchup is still a serious possibility, with Netflix likely providing a fitting platform for a fight that promises substantial viewership.
Mayer (22-2) was exploring a two-fight deal, potentially starting with WBA and WBC unified middleweight champion Kaye Scott, followed by a showdown with Shields later in the year. However, it appears Mayer is now considering a different path for her next fight.
While middleweight remains an option for Mayer, who holds titles at welterweight and super-welterweight, she is expected to fight at either 147 or 154 pounds next. Achieving a title at middleweight would make her a champion across four divisions, preparing her for a later clash with the current undisputed heavyweight champion.
Oshae Jones, the IBF world super-welterweight champion and part of the MVP roster, may present another possibility. Although they are friends, a fight between the two would likely only happen if the Shields bout falls through.
Mayer’s welterweight options are also enticing. The opportunity for undisputed status could manifest this summer against Lauren Price, who holds the WBC, WBA, and IBF belts. Mayer, with the WBO title, represents a prime match for the undisputed championship, and following last year’s stalled negotiations, the involvement of Jake Paul could facilitate a deal before 2026 concludes.
Chantelle Cameron will challenge for the vacant WBO super-welterweight title next month, and if victorious, a matchup with Mayer holds great intrigue. Both fighters have expressed interest in facing each other, and being under the same promotional umbrella makes this bout easier to arrange. If Cameron emerges as a two-weight champion, a fight with Mayer for titles across 147 and 154 emerges as a real possibility.
In the realm of boxing’s unanswered questions, the lack of a rematch between Alycia Baumgardner and Mayer stands out. There’s significant financial potential at stake, and while Mayer is keen on a rematch, it’s uncertain whether Baumgardner shares that enthusiasm. Unless substantial financial incentives are offered, this matchup may remain unresolved.
Mikaela Mayer’s journey has transformed from facing a scarcity of options to having a multitude of potential matchups across various weight classes. The pressing question now is who will be her next opponent?
At this stage, two fights seem the most likely. A confrontation with either Lauren Price or Chantelle Cameron appears on the horizon for Mayer, who is currently enjoying the best phase of her career. A return to the ring is anticipated in the summer, and either opponent may well be waiting in the opposite corner.
