This win contributed to her legacy as an undefeated champion, a rare feat in any professional sport.
Ali stalked Eplion throughout the four rounds, repeatedly trapping her in corners. She scored four knockdowns during the bout before the referee halted the contest. Post-Fight Reaction:
Responding to the challenge, Laila Ali confirmed she was receiving multiple "flattering" offers for boxing matches. “I haven't responded purposely because that's not my focus right now. I call the shots. I do what I want to do, how I want to do it," Ali stated in an interview. She also noted that she is "the only woman that can ask for that kind of money," acknowledging that her return could bring massive attention to women's boxing.
Nikki Eplion technical knockout (TKO) in the fourth round on July 17, 2004