Claressa Shields Shreds Laila Ali Over Refusal To Accept Fight

Claressa Shields Challenges Laila Ali for a Fight

One of the prominent stories in women's boxing this year is the ongoing dispute between undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) and boxing icon Laila Ali (24-1, 21 KOs), daughter of Muhammad Ali.

Background of the Feud

Shields has repeatedly sought a fight with Ali for years. Despite Ali being 17 years older and retired since 2007, she initially showed little reaction to Shields' challenges.

Ali's Conditional Statement

Earlier this year, Ali mentioned she might consider fighting Shields if offered a purse between $15-20 million. This statement sparked Shields to intensify her efforts, including attempts to meet the financial demand and publicly calling out Ali multiple times.

Ali's Response

Despite Shields’ persistence, Ali never gave a clear answer about returning to the ring for the fight, even if the money was secured.

Ali's Video Criticism

In a YouTube video posted on October 16, Ali criticized Shields for being disrespectful in her challenges and described her as having a "divisive, vindictive, and malicious nature."

Ali concluded the video by promising a follow-up where she would clarify if she would accept Shields' fight challenge.

Author's Summary

The call for a fight between Claressa Shields and Laila Ali remains unresolved, fueled by financial demands and public tensions but no official agreement yet.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-10-31