The long-standing debate of Laila Ali vs. Claressa Shields in their primes continues to captivate boxing fans worldwide. With Ali demanding $15-$20 million to consider a comeback fight, the potential clash remains tantalizingly out of reach.
While Ali’s unparalleled 21-KO record and dominance in the 2000s contrast sharply with Shields’ technical brilliance and younger prime, the financial hurdle now overshadows the sporting challenge. Recent verbal jabs between the legends have only fueled speculation about this historic women’s boxing event.
As negotiations stall over the massive purse demands, questions linger about whether this dream match will ever materialize or remain a “what if” scenario in combat sports history.
- Laila Ali has expressed interest in fighting Claressa Shields, stating the deal “just has to be right” for the bout to happen.
- Ali revealed she would consider the fight for $15–$20 million, with Shields responding on social media that she’s eager for the opportunity.
- Boxing legend Christy Martin predicts Ali would “smoke” Shields, citing Ali’s superior knockout record (21 of 24 wins by KO).
- Khalilah Ali, Muhammad Ali’s ex-wife, publicly supports Shields, saying she wants her to “kick Laila’s a–” as “payback.”
Community Reactions
- 匿名ツナ (2025-07-14)
$20M is pocket change for Dubai investors. Someone book this circus already—I’ll watch for the press conference meltdowns alone.
- 匿名ニンジン (2025-07-14)
Khalilah Ali wanting payback for Muhammad’s affair by backing Shields? Wrestling-level drama. Boxing’s turning into a soap opera. 😂
- 匿名エビ (2025-07-14)
Christy Martin said Laila would 'smoke' Shields. Who y’all trusting—a boxing OG or Twitter stans? Case closed.
- 匿名キュウリ (2025-07-14)
Martin also fought in the Stone Age. Shields has twice the skill. Times change, grandpa.
- 匿名キュウリ (2025-07-14)
Laila Ali vs Claressa Shields: Who Would Win in Their Prime?
The debate over who would win between Laila Ali and Claressa Shields in their prime has been a hot topic among boxing fans. Laila Ali, the daughter of Muhammad Ali, retired undefeated with 24 wins (21 by KO), while Claressa Shields remains undefeated with multiple world titles across three weight classes. Boxing legend Christy Martin recently weighed in, stating “Laila would smoke her,” citing Ali’s superior power and knockout record.
Claressa, however, has dismissed Ali’s accomplishments, claiming she only fought “soccer moms” during her era. This has fueled the rivalry further, with fans split on who truly deserves the title of the greatest women’s boxer.
Technical Skills vs. Knockout Power
Shields is known for her precision and footwork, while Ali relied heavily on her punishing power. If this fight happened in their primes, it would be a classic clash of styles.
What’s the Latest on the $20 Million Fight Deal?
Laila Ali has named her price for a potential comeback fight against Claressa Shields: between $15 to $20 million. Shields has publicly accepted the challenge, claiming she’s ready whenever Ali signs the contract.
However, negotiations seem stalled. Ali insists the financial terms must reflect the historic nature of the bout, while Shields argues that the fight should happen regardless of the purse. With both fighters holding firm, fans wonder if this mega-fight will ever materialize.
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Will the Money Be Enough to Get Ali Back in the Ring?
Ali has been retired since 2007 and lives a comfortable life outside boxing. While $20 million is a massive offer, her reluctance suggests she may value legacy over money.
Could This Fight Break Women’s Boxing PPV Records?
A Shields vs. Ali bout would likely shatter pay-per-view records for women’s boxing. Given the star power and controversy, it could rival or even surpass the popularity of Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano.
Comparing Past Mega-Fights
- Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (2022) – 1.5 million PPV buys
- Ronda Rousey vs. Holly Holm (2015) – 1.1 million PPV buys
- Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall (2022) – 500K PPV buys
If marketed correctly, this could be the first women’s boxing match to cross 2 million buys.
How Would a Fight Between Them Play Out Today?
Despite being 46 years old, Laila Ali insists she could still compete with Shields. However, ring rust and age might be major factors. Shields, in her athletic prime, would likely be faster and more active.
Potential Fight Strategy
| Factor | Laila Ali | Claressa Shields |
|---|---|---|
| Power | High | Moderate |
| Speed | Moderate | High |
| Experience | Extensive | Current elite comp. |
Will This Fight Actually Happen or Is It Just Hype?
The biggest obstacle remains Ali’s retirement status. While she’s open to the idea, the logistics of licensing, training, and financial agreements make it a long shot. Still, the constant back-and-forth keeps hope alive.
Similar Unrealized Superfights
- Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao (took 6 years to finalize)
- Ronda Rousey vs. Cris Cyborg (never materialized)
- Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua (fell through multiple times)
History shows that even the biggest fights can collapse over disagreements.
Laila Ali demanding $20M to come out of retirement is laughable. Shields would destroy her in her prime—those knockouts were against bums. Keep the nostalgia goggles off! 🤡
Tell me you know nothing about boxing without telling me. Laila had 24 wins, 21 KOs. Shields fights cans too—who’s her best opponent? A YouTuber?
Nah, Laila’s power was unreal. Even Khalilah Ali wants Shields to ‘kick her ass’—sounds like family drama fueling this. 🍿
This fight would be legendary, but let’s be real—it’s just hype. Neither will risk their legacy. Ali’s smart to price herself out. 💰
Christy Martin said Laila would ‘smoke’ Shields. Who y’all trusting—a boxing OG or Twitter stans? Case closed.
Martin also fought in the Stone Age. Shields has twice the skill. Times change, grandpa.
Khalilah Ali wanting payback for Muhammad’s affair by backing Shields? Wrestling-level drama. Boxing’s turning into a soap opera. 😂
$20M is pocket change for Dubai investors. Someone book this circus already—I’ll watch for the press conference meltdowns alone.