Mayweather Promotions CEO Lashes Out at Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins for “Classless Behaviour” Following Rolly Romero’s Loss

Isaac Cruz shocked the boxing world with a dominant performance against Rolando Romero. Just eight rounds into the fight, the referee called a stop to the contest, crowning Cruz the new WBA junior welterweight champion. But was the celebration by boxing personalities Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins disrespectful to the defeated Romero?

Their post-fight social media antics sparked outrage from Mayweather Promotions CEO, Leonard Ellerbe, who accused them of “classless behavior.” Why laugh at a fighter’s loss? Isn’t there a line between banter and disrespect?

Was Oscar De La Hoya and Hopkins’ reaction disrespectful?

Following Isaac Cruz’s emphatic victory, the boxing community buzzed with reactions. However, one response stood out for the wrong reasons. Michael Benson highlighted Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins’ controversial take on Instagram. They laughed heartily, with De La Hoya captioning, “We just heard Rolly got stopped by a chihuahua LMAO.” This attempt at humor quickly drew criticism.

Leonard Ellerbe, seeing the post, expressed his disappointment distinctly. “Wow, Rolly is ok but what if he wasn’t and something tragic happened?” he questioned, pointing out the potential for serious consequences in boxing. “Classless behavior from two HOF fighters and promoters especially immediately after a fight imo,” Ellerbe added, directly calling out the inappropriate timing and nature of their reaction. Furthermore, he didn’t miss the opportunity to acknowledge Cruz’s skill and performance. “Props again to Isaac Cruz and his team on a terrific performance,” he concluded, balancing his critique with recognition of the night’s true victor.

Cruz’s manager also made a big statement after his win.

Issac Cruz fulfills destiny

Isaac Cruz’s walkout music wasn’t the only thing electric on fight night. The crowd roared in anticipation, sensing a changing of the guard at 140 pounds. Cruz’s relentless attack on Rolly Romero was a culmination of a dream not just for himself, but for his entire boxing lineage.

Read more: Caleb Plant Defends Wife Jordan Plant Against Outrage Over Rolly Romero Post-Fight Interview

“There’s Canelo,” said Cruz’s manager Sean Gibbons, drawing a parallel between Mexico’s new champion and its reigning superstar. “And then there’s ‘Pitbull.'” This victory wasn’t just a title win; it was the fulfillment of a family legacy. Cruz’s grandfather, Memo, started boxing in 1966 and even defeated the legendary Pipino Cuevas, but never secured a championship belt.

Cruz, with the strap around his waist, beamed: “It means so much to…enjoy this with my grandpa and dad…The fact I can carry that mantle…that’s priceless to me.” With a fighting style reminiscent of a “Mexican Mike Tyson,” according to Gibbons, Cruz looks poised to reign at 140 pounds and potentially challenge the other champions in the division.

Also Read: Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero vs. Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz: Gervonta Davis Roped In to Prove Mayweather Promotions CEO’s Point

Who will step up to challenge the prowess of the “Mexican Mike Tyson”? Furthermore, with potential matchups against the likes of Gervonta Davis or Ryan Garcia on the horizon, will Cruz continue to dominate?