Laila Ali Delivers Final Blow To Claressa Shields In Years-Long Boxing Feud
Retired boxing champion Laila Ali has officially ended any hope of reconciling with Claressa Shields, rejecting a $15 million offer to return to the ring. The daughter of Muhammad Ali firmly stated on her podcast “Laila Ali KO” that she will never fight or engage with Shields after years of tension.
“Absolutely not,” Laila Ali said when asked if Shields’ public pressure campaign had worked.
Ali, 47, explained that her refusal stems from years of what she describes as lies, insults, and disrespect from Shields, including comments questioning her career and referencing her late father, Muhammad Ali. According to Laila, these remarks crossed a line that cannot be repaired.
“After years of blatant lies and vile disrespect, making unsolicited negative remarks about me, questioning the legitimacy of my boxing legacy, and having the audacity to cross the line by disrespecting my deceased father, trying to use his name to discredit his daughter.”
Ali made it clear that Shields will not receive the exposure or financial benefit of sharing a ring with her, emphasizing that some bridges cannot be rebuilt once crossed.
“She will not be rewarded with the opportunity to share the ring with me or anything else.”
Summary
Laila Ali permanently ended her feud with Claressa Shields, rejecting a $15 million comeback offer and condemning years of personal attacks and disrespect involving her late father.
Author’s summary: Laila Ali shuts the door on a $15M fight and reconciliation with Claressa Shields, citing years of lies and disrespect involving her family legacy.