“He’s Regressing Inside The Ring”: Oscar De La Hoya Slams Canelo Alvarez’s Legacy-Staining Fight

Four-division world champion, Canelo Alvarez, is widely regarded as one of the pound-of-pound superstars in the world of boxing. He is currently set to defend his WBA (Super), WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring super middleweight titles, against John Ryder. Previously, he had defended the same titles in a trilogy rematch against Gennady Golovkin. Meanwhile, there have been contrasting opinions about Alvarez’s choice of opponent. In fact, Alvarez’s former promoter and former six-division, Oscar De La Hoya, believes that Alvarez is hurting his legacy with his choice of opponents.

Alvarez and De La Hoya were former friends. And, he was also a part of De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions. However, the bond between the duo soured, and they have had an ongoing beef ever since.

De La Hoya was recently in an interview with Fight Hub TV. In conversation, the interviewer asked him about his thoughts on Alvarez’s upcoming fight. The 50-year-old initially mentioned that he was elated to see that he was fighting for the people of Mexico. Notably, this is a homecoming fight for Alvarez, with the event taking place in his hometown of Guadalajara. At the same time, he also expressed his concerns over Alvarez’s choice of opponents.

Oscar De La Hoya believes that Canelo Alvarez is ruining his legacy

De La Hoya was very vocal about Alvarez’s choice of opponents ahead of the undisputed showdown. Moreover, he also felt that Alvarez was not adding to his credibility as a top boxer.

He said, “You know it seems like he’s regressing inside the ring. He’s regressing in terms of picking opponents. He’s fighting all these British fighters. And, like that’s nothing to his legacy. So, I don’t know whose fault that is. You know I don’t want to mention anything. I think Canelo should analyze carefully who he wants to fight next.”

Moreover, De La Hoya also mentioned that Alvarez should focus on those opponents who would actually give him a good fight.

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Alvarez is happy to fight in his hometown

Ryder and Alvarez recently officiated their fight with a kickoff press conference. And came face-to-face for the first time ahead of their showdown. As reported by BBC, Alvarez was seen expressing his excitement about his homecoming bout. He said, “Returning to the ring. And coming back to fight in Jalisco, where I’m from, makes me especially happy. And in John Ryder, I’m facing a very competitive fighter.”

While many people may have speculations about Alvarez’s choice of opponents. There is no doubt that he will certainly showcase a sensational performance.

What are your thoughts on De La Hoya’s statements? Let us know in the comments below.

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