The question, posed by Oscar De La Hoya on Twitter, has ignited a fiery debate among fans and critics alike. In the ring, where courage meets skill, the accusation of ducking—avoiding potential fights—carries weight. Two names dominate the controversy: Floyd Mayweather and Canelo Alvarez.
Both are legends, yet their paths have stirred speculation and division. Mayweather, with his unbeaten record of 50-0 and defensive prowess, and Alvarez, a multi-division champion known for his ferocity, stand at the heart of the debate. It’s clear that De La Hoya’s query has touched a nerve.
Who has Floyd Mayweather and Canelo ducked?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Oscar De La Hoya tweeted, “Who’s the biggest duck of this generation?” Floyd Mayweather who has always been scrutinized for ducking fighters in their prime was the common answer with Canelo. Floyd was accused of ducking Manny Pacquiao in his prime and the fight eventually took almost 6 years to happen. The ask for the fight began in 2009 after Manny defeated Miguel Cotto but the fight eventually happened in 2015.
Canelo Alvarez on the other hand is now being accused of ducking Benavidez by asking for crazy money and fighting other fighters like Jaime Munguia. Although both of these guys’ resume is exceptional, the accusations don’t stop. And Oscar’s post made sure to reignite them.
Are boxing’s biggest names afraid of a challenge?
Firstly, a fan juxtaposes Canelo Alvarez and Floyd Mayweather, implying both might have strategically sidestepped formidable opponents.
Canelo and floyd…
— Victor (@Victor_romaniux) April 8, 2024
Next, this fan zeros in on Canelo, criticizing him for behaving as if he holds the reins to any fight, despite having losses. This fan’s frustration suggests that Canelo’s decision-making in fight selections is seen as overly confident, if not undeserved.
One is undeafted and the other has two Ls and acting like he has the opportunity to do this fight whenever he pleases. They are not the same, therefore, Canelo.
— jostrek (@jostrek) April 8, 2024
Then, this fan lightens the mood with a jab at De La Hoya himself, cleverly dodging the question by making a personal remark.
You aint never duck coke in your life so definitely not you 😭
— SENYO (@ItsTheD0n) April 8, 2024
Another fan offers a counter-argument, defending both fighters’ selections throughout their careers. He champions the idea that their star status and formidable resumes should exempt them from accusations of ducking, highlighting their contributions to the sport.
Why is everyone saying Canelo and Floyd! The 2 biggest stars of this generation with the 2 best resumes!
— Boxing crit (@BoxingCrit) April 8, 2024
This person delivers a pointed critique of Canelo, accusing him of avoiding key matches, especially against GGG in his prime. By questioning Canelo’s victories over top-tier opponents, the fan emphasizes the importance of facing and defeating the best in defining a boxer’s legacy.
Canelo. Ducked GGG in his prime, and gave up the belt. Ducked Benavidez. He has never knocked out a young champion in their prime, who's ranked ranked #1, 2. Name me one A+champion who he has knocked out? Has never had a career defining win.Lost all of his career defining fights
— Taquero (@Soyelchingon_1) April 8, 2024
Each fan brings a unique perspective, contributing to a multifaceted discussion about what it means to avoid fights and how it reflects on a fighter’s legacy.
Read more: Marcos Maidana Predicts Canelo Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia to End With a ‘Knockout’
Who do you believe is the biggest duck of this generation, or does the very question oversimplify the nuanced careers of these legendary fighters?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad