Claressa Shields Says Laila Ali Refused $15 Million Fight Offer

Claressa Shields says the long-hyped boxing showdown with Laila Ali isn’t happening because Ali is avoiding her.

Speaking to TMZ in Los Angeles, Shields claimed Ali has no interest in stepping into the ring.

“Layla and her representatives have told us no. Like, the answer is ‘no.’ She doesn’t want to fight. And that’s fine. I have no problem with that. I’m not upset. I mean, I wouldn’t fight me either. You know what I’m saying? I understand that she’s scared. I’m moving on,” Shields said.

She added that money was never the issue. “I thought that she was about all that talk. She wanted $15 million. I went and got the $15 million. And immediately it’s all this backpedaling. So, you know, congrats to her on whatever she’s doing. But I’m moving on with my career.”

Ali recently addressed the fight rumors on Instagram Live, responding to fans’ questions. “Yes, I’m going to answer your question…when I’m good and ready. Nobody calls the shots on me. I do things when, how, and where I like,” she said before signing off with “Bye. Love you guys” and using the hashtag #PracticePatience.

Talk of a possible bout started in 2018 when Ali told The Breakfast Club she didn’t see a worthy opponent to lure her out of retirement, though she praised Shields as a two-time Olympic gold medalist. In 2020, Ali mentioned a $5 million payday could tempt her, but no offer followed.

In July, Ali said only a $15 to $20 million offer could spark her interest. Shields quickly responded with a video saying, “Laila, I’m here with my team. I got some great news for you. We got the $15 million! Let’s make a fight between me and you. The best versus the best. The greats versus the greats. The GWOAT versus Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Laila Ali. Let’s make it happen.”