The “GWOAT” herself, Claressa Shields, has delivered a sharp and pointed response after boxing legend Laila Ali recently reignited talks of a comeback fight against her.
Claressa Shields isn’t here for the shade, and she’s definitely not ducking smoke from a legend.
Over the weekend, the women’s boxing world got loud after Laila Ali stirred the pot by teasing a return to the ring, but only if someone brings a check for $15 to $20 million. Ali, 47, made the bold comment during an interview at the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy event, making it very clear that unless the bag is secured, there’s no point in even picking up the phone.
But it didn’t take long for Claressa Shields to lace up her Twitter fingers and respond.
“Now @TheRealLailaAli I’m the GREATEST NOW! Be careful what you ask for! You know I’ve been wanting to make you eat your words! You’re not a better boxer than me, & at 175 I’ll put you on your back! BEEN READY FOR YOU! #GWOAT #claressashields,” Shields tweeted.
For those who’ve been tuned in, this beef has been simmering for a minute. The two icons have been throwing jabs (verbally) since 2019, when talks of a potential mega-fight first sparked headlines. Ali, daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, walked away from the sport in 2007 with an undefeated 24-0 record. But Shields, with two Olympic gold medals, multiple undisputed titles, and a resume that keeps getting longer, believes that crown belongs to her now.
Their rivalry has always been part respect, part ego, and all drama. At one point, a fight seemed like it could actually happen. But negotiations reportedly broke down when Laila’s purse demands hit the ceiling. Now, in 2025, the chatter is back, and with Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh dropping the bag for big fights lately, many believe the dream matchup isn’t so far-fetched.
Whether it’s legacy, ego, or just plain pride, one thing’s for sure: Shields is ready to settle this in the ring. She’s already made history as the only boxer, male or female, to become the undisputed champion in three different weight divisions. But facing Ali would be personal.
So now the ball’s in Laila’s court. And the million-dollar (or $20 million) question is: Will she fight? Or just keep talking?
