(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Claressa Shields vs. Laila Ali: Boxing Legends in a Dream Matchup
While the fight between Claressa Shields and Laila Ali is purely hypothetical at this stage, the excitement surrounding such a potential clash of boxing titans is undeniable.
Both women boast undefeated records: Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) and Ali (24-0, 21 KOs). Though separated by nearly two decades in age — Shields is 30, Ali is 47 — their legacies in women’s boxing spark a compelling “what if” scenario.
Shields herself recently told USA TODAY Sports, “A fight with me and Laila Ali would be one of the biggest in women’s boxing. We should do it for the culture. For the boxing culture.”
So who would win? Here’s what five experts had to say:
🔹 Christy Martin: Picks Laila Ali
Martin, a Hall of Famer who fought Ali in 2003, believes Ali’s size, strength, and ring IQ would be key advantages.
“Laila’s too big, too strong, too smart,” Martin said. “She uses her jab well, and Shields can struggle going backwards. If Laila comes back 100% ready, she wins.”
🔹 Kathy Duva: Picks Claressa Shields
Duva, a longtime boxing promoter and Hall of Famer, praised Ali’s impact on the sport but highlighted Shields’ active career and skill set.
“Ali is an icon, but even in her prime, she wasn’t as sharp as Shields is now. Add in Laila’s age and inactivity, and this fight is more of a spectacle than a contest,” she said.
🔹 Mary Jo Sanders: Favors Shields
Sanders, another Hall of Famer, sees stylistic contrasts but gives the edge to Shields due to her power and pace.
“Claressa’s punches have shocked other fighters. But Laila’s straight punches could cause trouble if Shields isn’t careful. Still, Claressa’s strength is hard to match.”
🔹 Gloria Thornton-Peak: Picks Claressa Shields
Thornton-Peak, Shields’ former Olympic coach, pointed to Shields’ relentless pace and accuracy as game-changers.
“Claressa has power, speed, and relentless output. I haven’t seen anyone handle her pace effectively. Her chances are very strong,” she said.
🔹 Johnny McClain: Picks Laila Ali
Ali’s former trainer — and ex-husband — McClain believes Ali’s ring experience and power would give her the win.
“Laila hits hard. She has the jab, the speed, and more knockouts. Claressa lacks that same power. Laila’s ring IQ and discipline would give her the upper hand,” he argued.
🔸 A Clash of Eras, Styles, and Legends
Whether it ever happens or not, a bout between Shields and Ali would undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about events in women’s boxing history. Ali’s dominance during her era and Shields’ continued excellence today represent the best of their respective generations.
