Laila Ali is putting an end to a bizarre and false rumor circulating online about her passing.
The actress and television personality took to Instagram on Sunday, March 30, to clear the air after learning that a fake news article claimed she had died while giving birth in a Canadian hospital.
The 47-year-old star addressed the hoax in a video, reassuring fans that she is alive and well.
“Hey there, it’s Laila. I just wanted to check in, let everyone know that I’m fine, I’m healthy,” she said in the clip. “There is apparently an article going around out of Canada that says I recently passed away giving birth at a hospital in Canada.”
Laila admitted at first she didn’t think much of the false story.
“When this was first brought to my attention, I didn’t think anyone would believe it, so I didn’t think it was a big deal,” she explained. “But apparently people do. They’re just concerned, so I’m getting text messages and calls, just checking in, making sure I’m okay.”
Shutting down the claims, Laila made it clear she was never pregnant and is instead focusing on her health and fitness:
“I was not pregnant at any time. I’m 47 years old. I have a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old. Honey, I just got these abs right, okay? I wasn’t trying to have no kids.”
The daughter of the legendary boxer Mohammed Ali ended the video by thanking her fans for their concern and support.
Earlier in the day, Layla also posted a message on Instagram to further dispel the hoax.
” I want to reassure everyone that it’s completely untrue. Thanks for your concern and support!” she wrote.
The incident highlights the dangers of online misinformation, especially when it comes to celebrity death hoaxes.
Laila Ali, a former boxing world champion, retired from the sports undefeated with a 24-0 record, holding multiple titles, including the WBC, WIBA, IWBF, and IBA super middleweight titles, and the IWBF light heavyweight title.
Her quick response seeks to reassure her fans and urge them to always verify sources before believing or sharing such reports.
