(FEB 2) WBAN has received an open letter from Vonda Ward, IBA multi-world champion.  She said the following:

To: All boxing fans

Being the current IBA Heavyweight and Cruiserweight Champion of the World, I am frustrated and disappointed. I have worked very hard and sacrificed many things to achieve my goals. Once I became one of the best, I expected to fight the so-called best. That is Laila Ali.

My manager and I have pursued this match-up on numerous occasions only to be turned down for one reason or another. Laila says she is not afraid of me, she says I'm slow and awkward.  If she believes this is true then what is the problem? My normal walking around weight is 180 to 185. Laila's natural weight is between 175 and 180.

We could fight for the WBC Heavyweight title which is 175 and up. My manager, Ed King, has been in contact with the WBC and they are very interested in making this match-up take place.  We believe that the appeal of this contest would be Laila going after the belt her famous father held for so many years. In my career I have never turned down a challenge.

 I have fought everyone willing to fight me. I even dropped two weight classes to fight Ann Wolfe. Has Ali done that? How long is she going to run from the best competition? How long is she going run from me? Laila Ali-self proclaimed best-prove it!! I'm waiting for your call.