It seems that Oscar De La Hoya and his fighter, Ryan Garcia, are not currently on the same page as to his next moves.
Their relationship is on a shaky peg following Garcia’s loss to Gervonta Davis, after which De La Hoya didn’t turn up to the post-fight press conference and then, days later, offered some harsh words of advice via the media.
Despite reports that Garcia is upset with the boxing legend, De La Hoya has been bullish in his approach to a comeback fight after this first career defeat.
He recently announced that he had four opponents in mind and would be meeting Garcia to discuss, and told Fight Hub TV that eight-division world champion and currently retired fighter, Manny Pacquiao, was in the running.
“It’s a very real option for both guys. Imagine a fight at a catchweight. It can be the biggest fight for both guys. I can see that fight happening at 142, 143 pounds maybe. Ryan Garcia is a big kid. Alongside Romero, Cruz, and Lopez, who Ryan mentioned, I think Manny Pacquiao is the biggest fight that can be made.”
“It all depends on what Ryan is feeling. We all know that he doesn’t like tune-ups … we’re hoping by September, or October he can come back and fight.”
It didn’t take long for Garcia to wade in though, and he said in no uncertain terms that a fight with Pacquiao was not happening.
This isn’t happening!!
I said what I wanted…
It’s frustrating.. tired of this https://t.co/KxV042D7o8
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) June 1, 2023
‘Pac Man’ has been out of the ring since a 2021 defeat to Yordenis Ugas, and his current status is retired despite his name being linked with many a young fighter – although fans can clearly rule Garcia out.
He has split with trainer Joe Goossen – who also was a no-show at the Davis press conference – in favour of Derrick James, and many fans believe De La Hoya may be next in line for the chop.