“They Are Just Older”: Oscar De La Hoya Opens Up on Possible Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao Rematch Following Filipino Legend’s Announcement

While in Tokyo for a function, as the year came to a close, the ‘PacMan’ dropped a bombshell. Inside a ring, while addressing a crowd, he spontaneously announced a major fight set for 2024. When it was time to reveal the opponent’s name, it turned out to be none other than Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The former 8-division champion already has a big bout coming up on April 20 against Muay Thai legend Buakaw Banchamek in Bangkok, Thailand. But ever since the unexpected announcement came, discussions have surged around only one topic: the tentative bout with Mayweather Jr. Even though there’s little information pertaining to match details, if there’s one to happen, opinions are being eagerly sought from former boxers who have had the chance to face both former world champions in the past. ES News had the privilege of speaking with Oscar De La Hoya, who had squared against both boxing greats, to gauge his views on their rematch.

A Clash Sans Magic: Oscar De La Hoya on Mayweather Jr.-Pacquiao Putative Rematch

The Olympic gold medalist shared that it’s none of his business to comment on the dealings of his former adversaries. However, he added that since it’s boxing, he is somehow required to speak about the sport. So he mentioned that both Mayweather Jr. and Pacquiao are older. The fight may still boast a level of excitement. However, one shouldn’t expect the contest to be a top-tier one, given that they are way past their prime.

He said, “I mean, I have the same answer as look. I mean, you know, it’s none of our business. But since it’s boxing and I obviously do have to say something about it, you know what? We all know they’re older. I mean, I’m older. Will it be fun? But will it be a fun fight to watch? I think so… I mean, will it be at the elite level? No, because they’re just older. You know, it’s not it’s not at the highest level anymore. But it’ll be a fun fight to watch.”

In a span of nineteen months back in the century’s first decade, Oscar De Hoya fought both masters. He first suffered defeat at the hands of Oscar De La Hoya. Their bout at MGM Grand Arena on May 5, 2007, ended with a split decision loss for De La Hoya. Over a year later, on December 6, a dazzling Manny Pacquiao forced him to retire from the game. It proved to be the last professional match of De La Hoya’s career, as he eventually bid goodbye to the sport.

Seven years later, on May 2, 2015, Pacquiao and Mayweather Jr. faced each other at the MGM Grand Arena. The fight created a record in terms of PPV sales. However, unfortunately, not many had encouraging words to say about the bout per se. Only time will tell whether their rematch, if it happens this year, will set the register ringing once again.

Read More: “A Great Start…”: Oscar De La Hoya Expresses Delight on Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren Working Together Ahead of Huge Saudi Arabia Card

What’s your take on De La Hoya’s views about the Mayweather Jr.-Pacquiao tentative rematch? Please share your views with us in the comments below.

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