Laila Ali Says She’s Open to Fighting Claressa Shields—But Only If the $20 Million Check Clears [Video]

Laila Ali might be lacing up her gloves again—but only if the offer is big enough. The former world champion, who retired in 2007, fuelled speculation when she responded to recent chatter about a potential fight with Claressa Shields. When pressed during a recent interview with reporters from FightHype, she didn’t mince her expectations: “Unless somebody has $15‑$20 million, don’t even call me about this.”

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She went on: “Unless somebody calls me and says they have it, we’re not going to 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.” Then, with a confident self-assessment, she added before walking off, “Do I look like I could fight again? I think so too.”

A clash between Ali and Shields would undoubtedly draw massive attention. Shields, a dominant multi‑world champion, has been widely regarded as the top active female boxer on the planet. Ali, of course, remains a legend in her own right: a former multi‑title holder and one of the most celebrated female professionals in boxing history.

Interest in this matchup might reach a fever pitch if a high‑profile backer emerges. One name already floated is Saudi Arabian sports promoter Turki Al‑Sheikh. He has established himself as a major force in global boxing, funding marquee events and helping transform Saudi Arabia into a premier home for the sport. If Al‑Sheikh, or anyone else, can meet Ali’s expensive threshold, fans may finally get the dream showdown: a return from the retirement stage for Ali, and a blockbuster battle with Shields on the line.