Muhammad Ali’s second wife, Khalilah Camacho‑Ali, has ignited fresh controversy by publicly predicting a decisive win for Claressa Shields over Laila Ali, her former stepdaughter, if the much‑anticipated superfight materializes.
At the weigh‑in for Shields’s heavyweight title defense on July 26, 2025, in Detroit, Khalilah didn’t hold back:
“I don’t care how much money. She’s going to get whooped. Three or four… she got to go.”
Khalilah reiterated her stance during Shields’s post‑fight press conference, adding:
“I think Laila needs to stay in the kitchen,” and affirmed her support for Shields as “the champ,”
The Fight That Has Everyone Talking
The potential matchup between Shields and Laila Ali has captured global attention. Shields remains unbeaten and recently defeated Lani Daniels in a dominant unanimous decision, retaining her undisputed heavyweight titles before a packed arena in Detroit. Her promoter confirmed a $15 million offer has been secured in escrow to entice Laila Ali out of retirement.
Shields herself has publicly called out Laila, stating:
“Let’s make a fight between me and you… the GWOAT versus Muhammad Ali’s daughter.”
She also harshly criticized Laila’s legacy, alleging she “let women’s boxing die” and that the sport was only revived by her arrival.
Why Khalilah Ali’s Remarks Are So Dramatic
Personal history: Khalilah Camacho‑Ali was married to Muhammad Ali from 1967 to 1976 and is Laila’s former stepmother. Rumors suggest ongoing personal tension with Laila’s mother Veronica may factor into her uncompromising public stance.
Generational clash: The potential fight has become framed as a showdown between two eras—Laila Ali, undefeated in her long-retired career, and Claressa Shields, the reigning undisputed champ, still active and in her prime.
What Lies Ahead?
As of July 28, 2025, Laila Ali has not formally accepted Shields’s $15 million offer. In earlier interviews, she stated she would consider returning only if the payout justified it—suggesting a potential range of $15–20 million.
Shields’s promoter continues to pursue the matchup aggressively, framing it as a major sports moment. Both sides have the potential to turn this into a high-stakes event.
Final Thoughts
This rivalry is about more than just boxing—it’s a storyline packed with legacy, family dynamics, and a clash of eras. Whether Laila Ali ultimately agrees to step back into the ring, the drama surrounding the matchup continues to fuel intense public fascination.