The boxing world is abuzz with a potential showdown between Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn, but one key figure, Oscar De La Hoya, is not on board with this proposed fight. De La Hoya, a prominent promoter and former champion, has expressed his strong reservations about the match-up and the process behind it.
A Fight in the Making?
De La Hoya's recent comments shed light on the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding this potential bout. He reveals that there have been announcements and discussions about staging the Garcia-Benn fight in Las Vegas this fall, but he claims to have been left out of the loop.
"Lots of fake news going around," De La Hoya stated. "I haven't been approached formally about making this fight, despite what's being said." He goes on to explain that Garcia has a two-fight deal with the Saudis, and the first fight was with Barrios. It seems the Saudis have chosen Benn as Garcia's next opponent, but De La Hoya is not convinced this fight is in the best interest of the fans or his fighter.
The Fans' Perspective
One of the most intriguing aspects of De La Hoya's commentary is his emphasis on the fans' desires. He asserts that the fans are not interested in this particular fight, and he would have preferred a rematch with Devin Haney, which he believes would be a much bigger and more exciting match-up. This raises an important question: Are promoters truly listening to the fans, or are they more focused on their own agendas?
Legal and Business Battles
De La Hoya's comments also delve into the legal and contractual complexities of the boxing business. He highlights the importance of adhering to contracts and the laws of the land, especially in the American market. He takes aim at Turki and Sela, suggesting they are disregarding these legal obligations by attempting to call fights and choose opponents without the necessary approvals.
"You can't just do whatever you want here in America. There are laws and contracts in place, and you're getting sued left and right for ignoring them," De La Hoya warns.
The Bigger Picture
This situation also brings to light the ongoing tensions and power struggles within the boxing industry. De La Hoya's mention of a "peace meeting" with Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn, from which he and other prominent figures were excluded, highlights the political nature of the sport. It's a reminder that boxing is not just about the fighters and the fans but also about the business and the egos involved.
In my opinion, this whole saga is a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of boxing promotion. It shows that while the sport is often celebrated for its raw, unfiltered nature in the ring, the business side can be just as cutthroat and complex. De La Hoya's comments provide a window into the strategic maneuvering and legal battles that shape the fights we see.
As for the future, it remains to be seen whether the Garcia-Benn fight will materialize, and if so, under what circumstances. One thing is certain: Oscar De La Hoya is not going down without a fight, and his voice will continue to be a powerful force in the boxing world.
