The boxing world is abuzz with a dramatic plea as Oscar De La Hoya, the legendary fighter turned promoter, has reportedly begged his protégé Mario Barrios not to take on Manny Pacquiao in a highly anticipated showdown. The emotional appeal, made during a heated meeting earlier today, has sent shockwaves through the sport, leaving fans and analysts stunned by the unexpected turn.

De La Hoya’s Desperate Plea

Sources close to Golden Boy Promotions reveal that De La Hoya, 52, cornered Barrios in a private session at their Los Angeles headquarters just hours ago, imploring, “Mario, don’t fight Pacquiao! It’s a career killer!” The outburst came after rumors surfaced of a proposed summer 2025 bout between Barrios (29-2, 18 KOs), the WBC interim welterweight champion, and the 46-year-old Pacquiao, who has teased a return despite his last fight in 2022. De La Hoya, who lost to Pacquiao in a 2008 classic, fears Barrios could suffer a similar fate, citing Pacquiao’s enduring speed and experience.

“Oscar’s terrified,” an insider said. “He sees Manny as a ghost from his past and doesn’t want Mario to face that legend’s wrath.” De La Hoya’s plea reportedly included a promise to find Barrios a safer opponent, though details remain scarce.

Barrios’ Response—and Ambition

Barrios, 30, has yet to publicly address De La Hoya’s request, but his camp hints at defiance. “Mario respects Oscar, but he’s hungry for this fight,” a source close to the San Antonio native said. Barrios, fresh off a knockout win over Abel Ramos in March, views a bout with Pacquiao as a chance to cement his legacy, even as a 3-1 underdog. His confidence has only grown since joining Golden Boy, where he’s been groomed as a future star.

Pacquiao’s team has fueled the speculation, with a spokesperson confirming negotiations for a July 2025 fight in Las Vegas, though no contract is signed. The Filipino icon’s social media posts hint at excitement, adding pressure on Barrios to decide.

The Boxing World Reacts

The news has ignited a firestorm. Fans on X are split, with some cheering Barrios’ boldness—“Let him fight Pac-Man!”—while others back De La Hoya’s caution—“Oscar knows Manny’s danger!” Former fighter Shane Mosley weighed in, tweeting, “Oscar’s right—Pacquiao still has that fire.” Critics, however, accuse De La Hoya of protecting his investment, given Barrios’ rising value under his promotion.

Golden Boy Promotions has remained silent, but the tension could strain the mentor-protégé relationship if Barrios pushes forward against De La Hoya’s wishes.

What Lies Ahead?

As the clock ticks toward a potential announcement, the boxing world waits to see if Barrios will heed De La Hoya’s desperate plea or chase the glory of facing Pacquiao. A loss could derail Barrios’ career, while a win could redefine his status. For De La Hoya, this is personal—a chance to shield his fighter from the legend who once humbled him.

Will Barrios fight, or will De La Hoya’s begging prevail? The answer could reshape the welterweight division.

What do you think? Should Barrios take on Pacquiao, or listen to De La Hoya? Share your take below!