Not Just Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali’s Daughter Laila Ali Also Once Backed Serena Williams to Do the Unthinkable: “That’s What Makes Her So Great”

Serena Williams has surpassed all standards and raised the bar for the sport of tennis. Undoubtedly, Williams will be remembered as one of the all-time great tennis players, and many athletes applaud her for her accomplishments. Astonishingly, the legend is only one Grand Slam victory behind Margaret Court in terms of total Grand Slam wins.

Williams’ victory at the 2015 Grand Slam Singles attracted attention from all across the world. At a Youth Tennis exhibition during the US Open, boxing star Laila Ali made some remarkable remarks regarding Williams.

Ali stated, “Serena is one of the most impressive athletes in history. There isn’t any one thing in particular about that stands out because you can check off all the boxes with her, whether it’s speed, power, balance, or discipline. That’s what makes her so great.”

The 24-0 boxer praised Williams and even mentioned how she comes from a background that’s not associated with tennis. Despite that, she has got to the top, and it is evident that she brings that pressure to the court. Additionally, Ali added an interesting comment regarding Williams having the necessary skills to become a boxer.

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Ali further added, “Boxing is a whole other thing. You can be physically fit and strong, but can you take a punch? Do you want to take a punch? I’ve met Serena, and she’s a very nice girl, she’s a girly-girl. I don’t think she’d want to get hit. But if she wanted to be a boxer, she could. She could really do any sport that she wants to because she’s physically built to be an athlete.” 

Laila Ali is of the opinion that Williams is more than capable of taking up any sport, including boxing. She attributes this to the player’s physical prowess and athletic ability.

Mike Tyson was stunned by Serena Williams’ boxing skills 

Mike Tyson, known as “The Baddest Man on the Planet,” is unquestionably one of the finest boxers of all time. The legend, though, once backed down from facing tennis great Serena Williams in the boxing ring. In a post that Tyson shared on Instagram with the tennis pro, the two are seen wearing boxing gloves.

Iron Mike wrote in the caption, “I don’t want to get in the ring with this GOAT @serenawilliams much love and respect.” 

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Well, Williams is objectively and arguably the greatest female tennis player of all time. However, Tyson and Ali, both iconic boxers, feel that Williams has the quality to become a boxer. Do you think she has what it takes to hash it out in the ring?

Also, do share your thoughts about Ali’s remarks on her in the comments below.