Claressa Shields Shreds Laila Ali Over Refusal To Accept Fight

Claressa Shields Criticizes Laila Ali Over Fight Refusal

One of the most notable rivalries in women’s boxing this year is the ongoing tension between undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields (17–0, 3 KOs) and boxing icon Laila Ali (24–1, 21 KOs), daughter of the legendary Muhammad Ali.

Shields has been urging Ali to face her in the ring for years, though Ali, who is 17 years older and has been retired since 2007, rarely responded. That changed when Ali reportedly said she would consider a comeback to fight Shields if she were offered between $15 and $20 million.

These remarks reignited Shields’ determination to make the fight happen. She claimed to have found the money Ali requested and continued to publicly challenge her through interviews and appearances.

Despite the renewed attention, Ali did not provide a definite answer about whether she would return to boxing, even for that sum. On October 16, Ali released a YouTube video criticizing Shields for her persistent and disrespectful remarks.

“Claressa Shields has a divisive, vindictive, and malicious nature,” Ali stated in the video.

Ali concluded the video by promising a follow-up, where she would clarify her stance on Shields’ proposed fight.

Author’s Summary

The long-simmering feud between Claressa Shields and Laila Ali reignited after Ali suggested she’d fight for $15–20 million, prompting Shields to escalate her public challenge.

more

Sports Illustrated Sports Illustrated — 2025-10-31

More News