Claressa Shields vs. Laila Ali: Where fight stands according to Ali business partner
Noble, Ali's business representative, said Muhammad Ali's daughter is focused on Food Network's 'Chef Grudge Match' premiering Aug. 12. Laila Ali will host the show.
'We don't have any comment for you at this time regarding the boxing matter,'' Noble told USA TODAY Sports by text message. 'However, when Laila has something to share very soon, the public will know."
Two weeks ago, Shields announced that her team has put $15 million in escrow for Ali, if Ali agrees to the fight. Ali has not publicly responded to the offer and in an interview last week with USA TODAY Sports, Shields said, "Do you want to entertain a fight or do you not?''
Ali, 47, was 24-0 with 21 knockouts before she retired from professional boxing in 2007. Khalilah Camacho Ali, one of Muhammad Ali's former wives, said, "I think Laila needs to stay in the kitchen.''
Shields, 30, is 17-0 with three knockouts. She defended her undisputed heavyweight title on July 27 with a victory over Lani Daniels by unanimous decision.
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