Laila Ali Net Worth

What is Laila Ali's Net Worth?

Laila Ali, a retired American professional boxer, boasts a net worth of $10 million. Besides being the daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, Laila carved a successful career as a television personality and as one of the top female boxers. Her eight-year boxing career saw her retire undefeated, clinching titles like the WBC, WIBA, IWBF, and IBA female super middleweight championships, as well as the IWBF light heavyweight title.

Early Life

Laila Amaria Ali was born on December 30th, 1977, in Miami Beach, Florida. The daughter of Muhammad Ali and Veronica Porché Ali, Laila pursued a diverse early career. By the age of 16, she had become a manicurist, and after high school, she earned a business degree from Santa Monica College in California. Before entering professional boxing, she even ran her own nail salon.

Boxing Career

Laila's boxing journey began at 18, inspired by Christy Martin. She announced her professional aspirations in an interview with Diane Sawyer on "Good Morning America," initially facing skepticism from her father.

Ali's debut match in 1999 against April Fowler, initially unnoticed, drew significant attention due to her father's fame. She won by knockout and continued her victory streak by defeating Shadina Pennybaker with a TKO. Her undefeated run led to calls for a bout against Jacqui Frazier-Lyde, daughter of Joe Frazier.

In 2001, the two boxing daughters squared off in a highly anticipated match, where Ali won by majority decision despite suffering a fractured collarbone and a bloodied nose. The match significantly elevated women's boxing and was the first women's bout to headline a pay-per-view event.

After a year-long break, Ali returned in 2002 to secure victories against Shirvelle Williams and Suzette Taylor, adding the WIBA and IWBF belts to her collection. She also defeated reigning world champion Valier Mahfood twice, though she sustained serious injuries during their rematch. In 2003, Ali fought and knocked out Christy Martin, her idol. She continued her victory streak by defeating Nikki Eplion, Monica Nunez, and claiming the IWBF Light Heavyweight title from Gwendolyn O'Neil.

Photo by Lefty Shivambu / Gallo Images

Ali's successful run continued in 2005, where she defeated Cassandra Ceiggar and bitter rival Erin Toughill, claiming the World Boxing Council title. That year, she also secured a victory against Åsa Sandell. In 2006, although a planned match with Ann Wolfe never occurred, Ali instead fought and won against Selley Burton. Her final match was in 2007, where she defeated Gwendolyn O'Neil with a first-round TKO, retiring with an impressive record of 24 wins (21 by knockout) and no losses or draws.

Entertainment Career

Beyond boxing, Laila Ali found success in the entertainment world. Her television debut came in 2000 with an episode of "The Jersey," followed by roles in "One on One," the George Lopez show, and "Real Husbands of Hollywood." In 2007, Ali gained wider recognition by competing in the fourth season of "Dancing with the Stars," finishing in third place despite no prior dance experience.

In 2008, Ali hosted "American Gladiators" alongside Hulk Hogan. She then appeared on "Celebrity Family Feud" and became a correspondent for "The Early Show." Ali's show appearances include "The N's Student Body," "Yo Gabba Gabba!," "Everyday Health," "Stars Earn Stripes," "The Biggest Loser," "Fashion Police," "Celebrity Wife Swap," and "Chopped: All Stars."

In 2013, she hosted "All In with Laila Ali" on CBS and later "Late Night Chef Fight" on the FYI network. In 2014, she acted in "Falcon Rising" and competed in "The New Celebrity Apprentice." Her recent appearances include "The Masked Singer" and voicing herself in "Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?."

Controversy

Laila Ali faced criticism for allegedly avoiding significant fights. Critics claim that many female boxers challenged her unofficially, but Ali did not accept due to unrealistic demands from her challengers. Ali defended herself by stating that potential opponents often negotiated in bad faith, knowing that a fight with her would bring them to prominence and demanding excessive sums of money.

Personal Life

Laila's first marriage was to boxer Johnny McClain from 2000 to 2005. In 2007, she married former NFL player Curtis Conway, and they have two daughters together.