Ali-Frazier daughters could meet in the ring

Jacqui Frazier Lyde, the daughter of former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, has decided to become a professional boxer and wants to fight against Muhammad Ali's daughter, Laila, the New York Post reported today.

Jacqui Frazier Lyde, the daughter of former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, has decided to become a professional boxer and wants to fight against Muhammad Ali's daughter, Laila, the New York Post reported today.

"It would be a great draw," the 38-year-old Lyde told the newspaper. "It would establish Laila financially, and then I would establish her horizontally."

Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier fought three times in the 1970s, with Ali winning twice - including the famous "Thrilla in Manila" fight in October 1975.

Lyde said she decided to enter the ring after watching the 21-year-old Ali's debut in October.

"A reporter asked me how I thought I would measure up to Laila," Lyde said. "I just said - it just came out: 'Oh, I could whip her butt.' Since that day I've been training two hours a day, every day, at my dad's gym."

Lyde, who has a private law practice, said her first fight is scheduled for April 22 in Beijing against an undetermined opponent.

Ali, 3-0 with three knockouts, wouldn't comment on Lyde's challenge.

"We're not addressing it until Jacqui Frazier is a professional fighter," said John McClain, Ali's trainer. "Let her get in the ring and become a professional. Then we'll deal with it."

Laila is 1.78 meters (5-foot-10), 76 kilos (168 pounds), and Lyde is 1.75 meters (5-foot-9), 84 1-4 kilos (186 pounds).