Boxing champion Claressa Shields has officially secured the $15 million purse needed to lure legendary fighter Laila Ali out of retirement for what could be one of the biggest bouts in women’s boxing history.
Shields made the announcement in a video sent to TMZ on Thursday, confirming that the full purse Ali previously demanded is now secured. The investment comes in part from Ruben Branson’s Wynn Records, who presented Shields with a massive $15 million check to cement the offer.
As previously reported, Ali, 47, made it clear that she’s not actively looking to come out of retirement. However, she revealed that a purse in the range of $15–20 million would be enough to make her seriously consider stepping back into the spotlight.
“The rumor that I heard is that unless somebody has $15, $20 million, don’t even call me [about a fight against Shields]. That’s all I got.”
She continued, “I said unless somebody calls me and says they have it, we’re not even gonna have a conversation. I’m not trying to come back and fight, but if someone offered that kind of money, I would actually have to think about it.”
According to TMZ, the demand has been met. “Laila, I’m here with my team. I got some great news for you. We got the $15 million!” Shields said in video sent to TMZ Sports.
“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.”
Laila has not responded as of yet.