A long-anticipated superfight between boxing champions Claressa Shields and Laila Ali is now on the brink of reality, as both athletes explore the possibility of stepping into the ring together. Recently, Shields announced that her team has secured the $15 million Laila Ali demanded to consider a fight, stating, “Laila, I’m here with my team. I got some great news for you. We got the $15 million!”
The proposal follows Ali’s recent comments expressing her willingness to return to boxing only for a substantial payday. She had made it clear that without an offer ranging from $15 to $20 million, she wasn’t interested. Now, with Shields’s team prepared to put up the funds, the dynamics of a potential matchup have shifted dramatically.
Shields, an undefeated champion with a record of 16-0, emphasized the significance of this potential bout, stating, “Let’s make a fight between me and you. The best versus the best. The greats versus the greats.” Both women hold flawless records, with Ali at 24-0, and their rivalry stretches back years, filled with competitive banter and verbal exchanges.
This development comes on the heels of the successful fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, which has reinvigorated interest in women’s boxing. Shields has expressed enthusiasm about securing venues for the fight, targeting T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and AT&T Stadium in Dallas, indicating a desire to create a major event.
With Shields’s team ready to proceed, they await Ali’s response, challenging her to make this long-hoped-for match a reality.
This potential matchup could not only reignite both fighters’ careers but also advance women’s boxing to new heights, drawing significant attention and further growing the sport.