The 1 Ingredient Laila Ali Felt Challenged by While Competing on “Chopped” (Exclusive)

Laila Ali, the multi-title-holding champion, faced challenging moments during her appearances on the cooking competition show “Chopped.” In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the TV personality and retired professional boxer discussed her experiences on the show and her upcoming hosting role in a new cooking competition, Chef Grudge Match.

Ali shared her thoughts on the intense nature of Chopped, describing it as “one of the hardest things” she has ever done. Recalling specific challenges from the show, she mentioned occasions where she had to work with unusual ingredients like a whole pig’s head and two baby lambs. These unexpected items presented unique obstacles for Ali, pushing her culinary skills to the limit.

Despite her initial surprise and uncertainty, Ali demonstrated her competitive spirit by successfully overcoming the challenges on Chopped. She emphasised the importance of staying focused and finding ways to tackle difficult situations in the kitchen. Her determination and adaptability ultimately led her to victory, securing her status as a champion on the show.

Ali also discussed her new role as the host of Chef Grudge Match, a cooking competition where rival chefs compete for a cash prize, coveted knives, and bragging rights. The show’s format involves head-to-head battles between chefs, adding an element of rivalry and excitement to the culinary competition. As the host, Ali brings her expertise and competitive drive to oversee the intense cooking showdowns.

Looking back on her time on Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay, Ali acknowledged the moments that tested her skills and creativity in the kitchen. She reflected on the pressure of competing against seasoned chefs and facing challenging ingredients, highlighting the determination required to excel in such high-stakes cooking competitions.

While Ali’s competitive spirit and culinary talents have earned her success on television, she joked about taking a break from competitive cooking. Despite her achievements in the kitchen, she expressed contentment with her past victories and indicated that she might not venture back into intense culinary competitions in the near future.

Chef Grudge Match, the new cooking competition hosted by Ali, promises to deliver thrilling culinary showdowns and intense rivalries among top chefs. Scheduled to premiere on Food Network and stream on HBO Max, the show offers a fresh take on competitive cooking, showcasing the skills and competitive spirit of talented chefs vying for victory.

In conclusion, Laila Ali’s journey from boxing champion to culinary competitor reflects her tenacity and versatility across different arenas. As she transitions into hosting Chef Grudge Match, Ali continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her passion for cooking and her unwavering determination to succeed in the kitchen. Stay tuned for the premiere of Chef Grudge Match to witness the exciting culinary battles unfold under Ali’s expert guidance.