Claressa Shields Shreds Laila Ali Over Refusal To Accept Fight

Claressa Shields Challenges Laila Ali Over Fight Refusal

One of the most discussed stories in women’s boxing this year centers on the rivalry between undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) and boxing legend Laila Ali (24-1, 21 KOs), daughter of the late Muhammad Ali.

Shields has been pushing for a fight with Ali for several years, though Ali — who is 17 years older and has been retired since 2007 — mostly stayed silent. The situation escalated when Ali mentioned she might consider stepping back into the ring for a purse between $15 and $20 million.

This remark spurred Shields to double down on her efforts, publicly claiming she could raise the money and repeatedly challenging Ali in interviews and appearances. Yet, Ali never clarified if she would actually return to face Shields, even for that substantial payout.

Laila Ali’s Video Response

On October 16, Ali posted a YouTube video criticizing Shields’ approach to calling her out.

Ali described Shields as having a “divisive, vindictive, and malicious nature.”

She concluded the video by announcing that a follow-up installment would address whether she planned to accept Shields’ challenge.

Author’s Summary

Claressa Shields reignites her long-running feud with Laila Ali after the retired champion hints at a possible comeback fight for the right price.

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Sports Illustrated Sports Illustrated — 2025-10-31

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