In a fierce and unexpected outburst, boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya has publicly criticized Floyd Mayweather’s latest exhibition match, calling it “a complete embarrassment” to the sport. The heated remarks come after Mayweather’s recent performance in an exhibition bout that many fans and analysts are now questioning. While exhibition matches are typically non-competitive, De La Hoya’s criticism underscores the growing divide between two of boxing’s most iconic figures.
Floyd Mayweather, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive boxers of all time, has recently ventured into the realm of exhibition matches, taking on lesser-known fighters and influencers in what many see as a way to continue profiting from his undefeated legacy. While these exhibitions are not intended to be official professional bouts, Mayweather’s fights have still garnered significant attention, with fans flocking to see the former champion’s skills on display.
However, De La Hoya, who has had a longstanding rivalry with Mayweather ever since their 2007 clash in the ring, did not hold back in his criticism. The former champion described Mayweather’s latest performance as “shameful” and “a mockery of boxing.” In a fiery social media post, De La Hoya wrote, “This is not what the sport is about. Floyd Mayweather should know better than to participate in these meaningless exhibitions that do nothing for the sport’s integrity. It’s a complete embarrassment.”
De La Hoya’s comments reflect the frustration of many within the boxing community who feel that Mayweather, by continuing to fight in non-competitive settings, is tarnishing his legacy and the reputation of the sport itself. While Mayweather has earned millions from these exhibitions, critics argue that they dilute the legitimacy of real, competitive boxing.
Despite De La Hoya’s harsh words, Mayweather remains unapologetic, defending his exhibition matches as a way to stay in the public eye while enjoying financial success. He has repeatedly stated that he is no longer interested in fighting professionally but still enjoys the thrill of entertaining fans in these high-profile exhibitions.
The feud between De La Hoya and Mayweather is far from new, but this latest criticism has reignited tensions between the two, adding fuel to an ongoing rivalry that has included both personal and professional animosity. As boxing fans continue to debate the merits of Mayweather’s exhibition matches, De La Hoya’s comments have sparked a wider conversation about the future of the sport and the role of legacy fighters in today’s boxing landscape.