Claressa Shields and Ryan Destiny Bring ‘The Fire Inside’ to Spelman College with Boxing Event for AUC Students

Claressa Shields and Ryan Destiny brought energy and empowerment to the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUC) on Thursday, November 14, during Ignite Your Flame, an exclusive boxing class hosted by Amazon MGM Studios at Spelman College. The event, held in the campus gymnasium, celebrated the upcoming release of The Fire Inside, a film inspired by Shields’ remarkable life and career.

The class, co-hosted by the Atlanta University Center Consortium, was led by Certified USA Boxing Coach Maria Merritt and attracted students from Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University. Designed to build both physical and mental resilience, the high-energy session encouraged students to embrace their inner strength.

Following the workout, Destiny—who stars in The Fire Inside—and Shields, the two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time undisputed world boxing champion, joined attendees for a candid Q&A session. Shields shared her inspiring journey from Flint, Michigan, to becoming one of the most accomplished boxers of all time, while Destiny reflected on her role in the film. The two encouraged students to persevere through challenges and pursue their goals. “Never stop fighting for what fuels your passion,” Shields told the audience.

The Fire Inside tells the true story of Shields’ rise to greatness, from her days as a determined high school student in Flint to becoming the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. Directed by Rachel Morrison and written by Barry Jenkins, the film delves into Shields’ triumphs and struggles, both inside and outside the ring.

Produced by Elishia Holmes and Barry Jenkins, and with executive producers including Shields, Morrison, and Lyn Lucibello Brancatella, the film stars Ryan Destiny and Brian Tyree Henry. With a PG-13 rating, the movie is set to inspire audiences with its powerful themes of perseverance and self-determination.

For the students who attended Ignite Your Flame, the event was more than just a workout—it was an opportunity to connect with role models, reflect on their own aspirations, and walk away motivated to ignite their inner fire.