Boxing legend Laila Ali says she’d consider returning to the ring, but only under these conditions.
The former undefeated champion recently stated that she would consider fighting boxer Claressa Shields—but only if the payday is big enough.
In a recent interview, Ali, 47, made it clear that she’s not actively looking to come out of retirement. However, she revealed that a purse in the range of $15–20 million would be enough to make her seriously consider stepping back into the spotlight.
“The rumor that I heard is that unless somebody has $15, $20 million, don’t even call me [about a fight against Shields]. That’s all I got.”
She continued, “I said unless somebody calls me and says they have it, we’re not even gonna have a conversation. I’m not trying to come back and fight, but if someone offered that kind of money, I would actually have to think about it.”
Ali, the daughter of Muhammad Ali, retired in 2007 with an unblemished record of 24-0. Widely regarded as one of the greatest female boxers of all time, her name still carries massive weight in and outside of the sport.
The potential matchup would pit Ali against Claressa Shields—an Olympic gold medalist and current multi-division champion often dubbed the “GWOAT”. Shields has previously expressed interest in fighting Ali, making this hypothetical matchup one of the most intriguing possibilities in women’s boxing history.
Shields has since responded to Ali’s comments, seemingly welcoming the challenge. “What a great weekend of boxing 🥊! Really motivated! Now @TheRealLailaAli I’m the GREATEST NOW! Be careful what you ask for ! You know I’ve been wanting to make you eat your words! You not a better boxer than me & at 175 I’ll put you on your back! BEEN READY FOR YOU! #GWOAT @claressashields”. Shields wrote via X.
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