Claressa Shields’ Ambitious Plans
After successfully defending her title as the undisputed heavyweight champion, Claressa Shields has made it known that she has received an enticing offer for a potential fight with her historical counterpart, Laila Ali. In a recent appearance on the Ariel x Ade Show hosted by Uncrowned and DAZN, Shields revealed,
“I know Wynn Records has $15 million in escrow, and it’s ready for Laila if she decides to accept this offer. That is the figure she feels she deserves, and we can make this matchup a reality.”
Laila Ali’s Legacy
Laila Ali, the daughter of boxing great Muhammad Ali, retired from professional boxing in 2007, boasting an undefeated record of 24-0 and holding the WBC super middleweight title at the time of her departure. Since then, Ali has not stepped into the ring for nearly two decades and is now 47 years old, significantly older than the 30-year-old Shields, who ranks as Uncrowned’s second-best pound-for-pound female boxer.
Shields’ Motivation and Criticism
Despite some critics questioning the value of such a fight given Ali’s long absence from the sport, Shields is eager to face her, driven by the desire to validate her claim to being the “Greatest Woman Of All Time” (GWOAT). Commenting on her motivations, Shields stated,
“I want to demonstrate that she cannot defeat me, let alone knock me out. Even in our primes, I believe I would have emerged victorious over her. It’s about a transition of power in women’s boxing; someone needs to take the torch either verbally or through performance.”
Shields further criticized Ali’s claims about not needing significant preparation for a comeback, suggesting that, contrary to what Ali says, she might not have the edge being out of the ring for so long.
“She has stated she’s training in the gym and doesn’t have the wear and tear that I have from competing regularly. If she believes she can make a successful return with sufficient time and financial incentive, then why not step back into the ring?”
Shields’ Rising Star Power
Recent trends show that retired fighters, including legends like Mike Tyson, often face difficulties upon returning to the ring. As Shields reflects on her own recent victory against Lani Daniels in Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena, which also marked the end of her promotional deal with Salita Promotions, she notes the considerable turnout—15,366 fans—indicates her rising star power in American boxing.
She emphasized,
“Many have doubted my popularity; now we clearly know that’s untrue. I can attract fans not just in Detroit but worldwide, and I am open to challenging top competitors. My market value has shifted significantly.”
Future Opportunities
With her promotional contract now expired, Shields is weighing various opportunities and eager for discussions with multiple promoters regarding lucrative offers. Previously under Salita Promotions for nine years, Shields clarified that he has allowed her to negotiate with others before making a final commitment—an option that underscores her newfound status as a free agent.
“I believe I deserve to earn between $5 million to $15 million per fight,”
Shields asserted, reflecting on her earnings from previous bouts, which ranged from $1 million to $1.8 million. As she considers potential next moves, Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions has emerged as a prominent option. This organization has rapidly established itself in women’s boxing, especially after hosting high-visibility events like the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy fight.
Shields vs. Green
Given her history with Savannah Marshall—whom Shields defeated, one of her career highlights—Shields has expressed interest in facing Shadasia Green, another fighter under MVP.
“I am determined to fight Shadasia. Her recent performances and comments seem to downplay my achievements and assert that I lack knockout power,”
Shields remarked.
“I believe we both know that I am superior in the ring, and I’ve long sought this bout. It’s time for her to step up and make it happen.”
As she explores her options, Shields remains focused on securing her rightful place in boxing heritage and upholding her claim as the sport’s leading female fighter.
