Boxing fans are buzzing after Laila Ali revealed the staggering amount it would take for her to consider stepping back into the ring to face Claressa Shields. The daughter of the legendary Muhammad Ali, Laila has been retired since 2007, but the possibility of a fight against the current pound-for-pound queen of women's boxing has sparked considerable interest.
Ali was part of the Netflix broadcast team for the historic all-women's boxing event headlined by Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano's third fight. Her presence and insightful commentary only fueled the speculation about a potential comeback.
The $15-20 Million Question
In an interview with FightHype, Ali stated that it would take a staggering $15 to $20 million to even consider returning to the ring. "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 said, according to an X post from Fight Hub TV.
When the interviewer suggested that Turki Alalshikh, a powerful figure in boxing promotion, might be able to finance such an event, Ali responded, "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."
Is This Fight Really Possible?
A fight between Ali and Shields would undoubtedly be a massive event, potentially drawing huge numbers due to the legendary status of both fighters and the existing tension between them. Whether Alalshikh, or anyone else, is willing to meet Ali's asking price remains to be seen.
- Laila Ali names her price for a potential comeback.
- Claressa Shields remains a dominant force in women's boxing.
- The fight would generate significant revenue and attention.
For now, boxing fans can only dream of seeing these two icons clash in the ring. But with that price tag, it may remain just that... a dream.