Shields vs. Ali: A Dream Match Still Alive?
The world of women’s boxing has seen its share of rivalries, but few have captivated fans quite like the potential clash between Claressa Shields and Laila Ali. Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and undisputed champion in multiple weight classes, and Ali, the daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali and a formidable force in her own right, seemed destined to meet in the ring. However, despite the buzz and anticipation, the fight never materialized. In a recent interview with boxing great Andre Ward, Shields shed light on the reasons behind the stalled matchup and reignited the possibility of a future encounter.
The tension between Shields and Ali reached its peak in 2020, with both fighters engaging in public exchanges and fueling speculation of an impending showdown. According to Shields, the primary obstacle wasn’t financial; the offered purse met Ali’s demands. The holdup, she revealed, stemmed from Ali’s inability to secure medical clearance to compete. While the fight ultimately fell through, Shields maintains that a bout with Ali, even an exhibition, remains the biggest possible event in women’s boxing. She believes the magnitude of their combined legacies surpasses even the drawing power of current stars like Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor.
Shields emphasized the historical significance of a potential fight with Ali. "Me fighting her right now is still the biggest fight in women’s boxing," she stated emphatically. "Right now. You got all the Amanda Serranos and Katie Taylors, but Claressa Shields vs. Laila Ali—even in an exhibition—is still the biggest fight in the world for women’s boxing." This conviction underscores the enduring appeal of a clash between two iconic figures, a matchup that transcends generational divides and speaks to the heart of the sport’s history.
While Ali, now 46, appears less likely to return to the ring after a lengthy retirement, the allure of a substantial payday could prove tempting. The recent success of exhibition matches, particularly the highly viewed event between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, demonstrates the potential for lucrative opportunities in this realm. Although a Shields-Ali fight might not reach the same astronomical viewership numbers, it would undoubtedly generate significant interest and potentially become the most significant event in women’s boxing history. Positioning the fight strategically on a high-profile card, such as a rumored Logan Paul vs. Conor McGregor exhibition, could further amplify its reach and ensure a massive payday for all involved.
Beyond the financial incentives, a reconciliation between Shields and Ali would be a welcome development for the sport. Both women have made invaluable contributions to women’s boxing, serving as role models and paving the way for future generations of female fighters. Their shared passion for the sport and their dedication to elevating its profile make a potential truce all the more desirable. Burying the hatchet and showcasing mutual respect would not only benefit their personal relationship but also serve as a powerful message of unity and sportsmanship within the boxing community.
At 29, Shields is entering a new phase of her career, aiming to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, a feat that would solidify her legacy as a four-division undisputed champion, an unprecedented accomplishment in the sport. With her biopic, "The Fire Inside," set to premiere on Christmas Day and her unwavering pursuit of excellence in the ring, Shields is arguably at the pinnacle of her professional journey. She intends to retire at 38, but before hanging up her gloves, she plans to return to the 154-pound division for a few lucrative bouts. Her upcoming fight against Danielle Perkins on February 2nd, a defense of her WBC heavyweight title, marks another chapter in her illustrious career. As Shields continues to dominate the sport and pursue new challenges, the possibility of a clash with Laila Ali remains a tantalizing prospect for fans and a potential crowning achievement for both fighters.
