: Ibn Abi Al-Hadid wrote

When Imam Ali (peace be upon him) challenged Muawiyah to a duel during the Battle of Saffin so that people could be spared from the war the death of one of them

Amr ibn al-As said to Muawiyah: “Imam Ali has been fair to you, and it would be best if you yourself confronted him

Muawiyah replied: “You have never deceived me since the time you started advising me except today

Are you trying to make me fight and confront Abu Al-Hasan (Imam Ali) while you know he is a powerful  and overwhelming warrior

I see you aiming for the leadership and governance of Sham (Syria) after me.”

Explanation of Nahj al-Balagha, Volume 1, Page 20